Fool's Gold

Malcolm Report

Report Filed: Dark Moons 25th, 3126

Dark Moons 22nd, 3126

Early on the 14th of Dark Moons the newly reformed Alpha Team awoke in a roadside in a bit over half a days ride north of Echer’Naught along the North Barony Road. Based upon the complaints received by the local inkeep, I perceived there was some difficulty with the Trainee McKenzie Shan’s animal friends, the bear Volstagg, and and stallion, Diego. I question allowing untrained animals accompany teams in the field if these are to be the results, but such decisions are made well above my station.

Newly raised Corporal Grendel elected to begin the investigation at the most extreme, and most “friendly” Barony, that belonging to Colonel Wolfahven. Alpha Team rode through and arrived late in the evening on the same, Dark Moons 14th.

Baroness Wolfhaven’s bonded Farspeaker alerted Regional Command that Alpha had arrived safely. The Baroness provided all documented proof of paid taxes and assisted the team in their investigations. Her adepts reported that the Rangers inspected their vaults, the tax strongboxes, and the tax records. They would be departing in the morning and working their way south through the list of Baronies.

Per their report, we know that the taxes were collected by the barony and loaded into the king’s strongboxes before being secured within the barony vault. From there, a heavily armed caravan of the King’s men, under command of Royal Sheriff Halten, but under the flag of the King, arrived to transport the taxes to Echer’Naught. The barons claim payment of the King’s taxes, but the Royal Sheriff’s accountants have the Barons to be in arrears. No one dares accuse the King or the Sheriff, but the Barons refuse to pay more.

Dark Moons 15th, 3126

Leaving early, Alpha Team headed south to a neighboring Barony, the Boer House. Related to the Boers of Reinhart, though vassals of Harken. Alpha Team pass the the southern border of Wolfhaven lands at the site of Rildrirr’s Totem Pole. Though I have never witnessed it myself, it has been reported that it contains a stylized wolf’s head, wild cat, soaring eagle, owl, mountain, dog, doe, hearthfire, gnarled oak, and raging bear all stylized in the fashion of the Northern Barbarian Tribes.

They successfully reached Lord Boer’s Keep, but were not met with kindness. Still, the Olarans submitted to Ranger authority and provided Alpha Team their tax records, if just. From what I have learned, Boer records, like Wolfhaven’s, appear to be in order. Though, the Boer House refused to permit the Rangers to take their logs without a direct order from the King. They provided an “escort” to the lands south.

When Alpha Team arrived, they found an armed escort waiting. The southern Barons refused to allow the Rangers entry into their lands. Rather, at each new holdfast, the Rangers were met with armed men, and records. The Barons met their obligations, but showed no courtesy or kindness. Still, in their ill manners, they actually expedited the Ranger investigation, saving a trip to each individual hold. Still, it took two days to investigate the northernmost baronies.

Dark Moons 17th 3126

On the 17th, the Alpha Team arrived at the midway point between the Wolfahven Barony and the city. Over the last few years, the community has grown into a thriving trading post and waystation. Here, Alpha Team stopped two days to investigate. They had received intelligence suggesting that the King’s men had stopped in the vill during their tax collection on their way south to Echer’Naught.

Nothing is found of interest to the mission, though I continue to read troubling reports that the team has been stalked by a pair of large Ravens since departing for the mission. The Rangers of Alpha Team fear the Ravens serve dark forces, though I have been unable to determine the truth. Ravens are oft used as messengers by various factions with the Southern Kingdoms and beyond, so these messengers might belong to anyone. Troubling news.

Dark Moons 19th, 3126

Alpha Team departs the waystation on their return to Echer’Naught. Along the way, the investigate the southern half of the list of Northern Baronies in arrears. Like the others, the Rangers are met with stoic hostility, but if the Barony papers are accurate, none are guilty of tax evasion.

Dark Moons 21st, 3126

Alpha Team arrived in Echer’Naught late in the evening. Corporal Grendel reported to Colonel Anderson regarding the mission and the lack of any usable leads. The Colonel noted that many of the King’s Men patronized the Barracks in town. This information in hand, Alpha Team headed into the city to meet with, and hopefully question, the King’s own tax collectors. While in town, I have been informed that Aronzo has received a cloak of serious power. The records surrounding the cloak, and its history, are sealed.

By night, Alpha Team entered The Barracks in small groups. Sssahliissstah protected young Ingrid with Grendel and Ranna at the bar. Aronzo, Blackstone and McKenzie approached a table of the King’s men. Again, while ostensibly under command of the highest officer in the city, Sir Halten, Royal Sheriff and Warden of Echer’Naught, these men wore the colors of House Olar, and the royal crest.

Through drink and carousing, Aronzo and McKenzie realized the officer of the King’s Guard, and royal Exchequer, was guilty of some crime, though they knew not what. Ingrid joined McKenzie to keep the Kingsguard busy, while Aronzo “invited” the Office to speak privately with Corporal Grendel to the rear of the tavern. There, under the withering gaze of the ogre, the Office Wulfur of the Royal Exchequer, admitted that “they”, though he knew not who, had taken his wife and demanded that he grant them access to the tax wagon while it stopped at the midway trading post. That was all he knew, but he agreed to submit to the King’s justice.

While Grendel gathered the team from the tavern, much to the dismay of the King’s men, Sssahlisstah and Aronzo escorted Office Wulfur to Sir Halten’s estate where he was immediately taken into custody. Meanwhile, Corporal Grendel ordered Alpha Team to gear up and prepare to move. By the 11 PM on the 21st, Alpha Team was hard charging north, with Aronzo, Blackstone, and an inebriated McKenzie and Ingrid riding hard, with Corporals Grendel and Sssahliissstah, and RFC Ranna lagging behind. The entire command staff.

Dark Moons 22nd, 3126

At around mid-day on the lead element, under ostensible command of Aronzo, arrived in the mid-point trading village and began their search. Aronzo using his cloak. Breaking into pairs, with Aronzo and Blackstone each taking one of the drunk woman, they made a quick survey of the community and both arrived at a seemingly abandoned barn on the extreme north-east side of town. They attempted to scout the location and wait for backup, but they were quickly spotted. The quartet come under fire from inside, so Aronzo ordered the attack.

With the four Ranagers, and the bear Volstagg, they made quick work of the two men inside. They also found a wagon of straw, that covered a false bottom. In the secret compartment were cases of gold, melted into ingots. Blackstone and Ingrid secured the goods while Aronzo and McKenzie headed into town meet up with the rest. Corporal Grendel’s team arrive around 1PM to find the gold recovered, and the enemy easily dispatched…by four new Rangers, two being well pissed during the entire encounter. The team was exhausted, so Corporal Grendel ordered rest. They camped in the barn until early the next morning.

Dark Moons 23rd, 3126

At dawn, the Rangers switched up the oxen, leaving the Ranger wagon at the inn, escorted the stolen gold back to Echer’Naught. They arrived late, but immediately turned gold and wagon over to Sir Halten, who seemed surprised at such a swift resolution. Still, the gold was counted, weighed and secured in a vault to be collected by the King. Alpha Team elected to celebrate, save for Corporal Grendel and Corporal Sssahliissstah who report to Colonel Anderson. Grendel suspects there is something wrong with the mission, and asked for permission to continue the investigation. Colonel Anderson ascents, and pulls strings to pressure Sir Halten into granting Corporal Grendel access to the gold.

Dark Moons 24th, 3126

With orders in hand, Alpha Team returns to a very unhappy Sir Halten. Under protest, he grants Corporal Grendel access to the vault. There, Grendel discovers the gold is really gilded lead when he scars an ingot with his club. Furious, Sir Halten gives the team 48 hours to recover his gold or he would hold Corporal Grendel personally responsible for the failure to recover the taxes.

Alpha Team again, saddles up and rides north. This time, to investigate the last place the gold was seen, the abandoned barn.

Dark Moons 25th, 3126

Back, AGAIN, the Rangers arrive mid day and begin their search. Sssahlisstah discovers deep wagon ruts under the snow leading north and east from the barn. Following the tracks the Rangers arrive at a seemingly abandoned farmhouse just before nightfall. Ingrid summons a faerie to scout, but she loses contact once the creature disappears into the complex of three large farmhouses. Next, Corporal Grendel and Aronzo, now an Ogre, approach the front house while the Rangers fan out into a skirmish line.

All seems quiet until Grendel bashes down the door and is met by fire from within. Above them, a hatch drops and a hidden ballista opens fire, rocking Ranna with poisoned bolts. Battle ensues as Grendel attempts to force his way inside, and the skirmish line engages the ballista. All seems well, with Blackstone rushing in to heal Grendel’s wounds, and the team taking out the ballista, when the enemies within the farmhouse exit the rear just as the whole structure explodes.

Corporal Grendel, Aronzo, and Blackstone are immediately taken out. Through the roil of smoke and flames, more enemies pour from the other two houses, with two more ballista appearing. The Rangers come under heavy fire. Corporal Sssahliissstah closes with the enemy, but she too takes hits and goes down. Ranna assumes command, with Ingrid summoning more faeries to heal the fallen Blackstone. Sadly, the Rangers are too late. The enemy commander appears, standing over Grendel’s body. He orders the Rangers to surrender or Grendel would die.

Ranna orders the surrender and the remaining Rangers drop their weapons and are rounded up. It is then that the commander orders Aronzo, Sssahliissstah, and Blackstone slain, Grendel and Ranna sold into slaver, and permits his men to “have” “the women.” When the situation turned darkest, arrows rained from above and an Aevakar entered the fray, engaging the enemy commander directly.

With the distraction provided, the Rangers attacked, Ingrid finally healing Blackstone and Grendel. Blackstone healed Aronzo and made for Sssahliissstah. The rest of the Rangers fought. Their new friend killed the commander and then help engage the remaining foes. The tide turned. Blackstone healed Corporal Sssahliisstah bringing the team back to full status. Along with the newcomer, the Rangers quickly overpowered the enemy troops, killing all but two who Aronzo managed to incapacitate.

The battle was won, but they still had two buildings to clear. Corporal Grendel wisely called for support, which the newcomer, Steelwing as he is called, sent his own eagle to deliver the message to the nearest Ranger HQ. Taking just a moment to lick their wounds, Alpha team surrounded the remaining buildings and waited for reinforcements. Though they have yet to find it, they presume the gold lies within. And if now, those who stole it.

New Day

Malcolm Report

Report Filed: Dark Moons 13th, 3126

The following represents compiled information gained through Alpha Team debriefs and official Ranger command reports.

Dark moons 6th, 3126

Urgent requests arrive from Almahrad for Lieutenant Volstagg to travel to the City of Dreams at his earliest available time. With winter still locking most roads in ice and snow. Lieutenant Volstagg elects to leave his wife and newborn children in the city while he rides ahead to begin establishing the outpost. She is to rejoin him after the snows thaw in spring. Prior to his departure, Colonel Anderson, head of the Regional HQ’s Diplomatic Office and acting Regional Commander, presents the following Promotion:

Lieutenant Gunther Volstagg is Promoted to Captain.

In addition, the newly minted Captain accepts his official Diplomatic posting. By that evening, he and a small retinue depart for Almahrad.

Dark Moons 7th, 3126

Reports indicate that the morning after her husband’s departure, Lady Zathlan met with Baroness Wolfhaven to break their fast. Presumably, she sought the Great Lady’s advice, and counsel on her family and other matters. The bond between the Wolfhaven and Vosltagg houses continue to strengthen. After her morning meal, Lady Zathlan took her carriage to the Sacred Grove. Again, it must be assumed that she here saught High Druidess Treesinger’s advice and examination of her twin children. What was said is private, but I am led to understand that the children are in the best of health.

Dark Moons 8th, 3126

The day after Lady Zathlan attended the Baroness, Corporal Daynore also met with the Great Lady. He petitioned to take the oath and become Sworn of House Wolfhaven. Baroness Wolfhaven accepted his offer without issue. Leaving there, Corporal Daynore headed to the Regional Headquarters where he officially resigned from the Rangers, with full petition for time served, and turned over his Focus Crystal. He also accepted to have his powers Bound so that he might continue working with the Rangers as a contractor, particularly, Sergeant Major Stormhammer’s team.

Daynore’s Focus Crystal was turned over the Wolfhaven Barony to be included in the euphemistically named, Vault, along with all the other past items of power from Alpha Team’s former members. Though, I am certain the crystal will be the subject of some study considering Daynore’s condition. It is highly likely that whatever happened to Daynore also affected the Crystal. By understanding the one, we may eventually understand the other.

Dark Moons 9th, 3126

The following morning, after quite reflection, Master Durlan Daynore, before the members of Alpha Team, and the Baroness Wolfhaven, accepts the Oath of Sworn to House Wolfhaven. The Baroness presents him with his White Silver Parrying Dirk, crested in House Emblem.

That same evening, the surviors of the last mission gathered in the back room of the Wayfarer’s Rest to host Serys’ Last Call. Of all such events I have attended, his was the smallest, and quietest. I am more acquainted with speeches, singing, and sharing of tales. Instead, everyone stood around quietly and drank, some to excess. Few words were shared. Though, I suppose that is much like the man himself was, quiet. I imagine even that was more than he expected. His only request, the return of his Family’s necklace to his mother in Tar’Imas. That duty has been given to Nexus, his apparent half-sister. I left before the festivities were concluded, though I do know that RFC Grendel found himself in a nice brawl, suffering fairly grievous injuries.

Dark Moons 10th, 3126

In the early morning, the day after Serys’ Last Call, a curious event occurred. From what I have gleaned, Lady Zathlan was awakened by her staff. A package had been delivered. The package, as it turned out, was in the form of a one year old boy, Gunther Volstagg, the illegitimate offspring of Captain Volstagg and a local woman some year and half past. Her name, we have determined, was Angelica. She and her sister “entertained” Sir Volstagg on the night of his first arrival in the city. Angelica grew pregnant with his child. Unfortunately, her sister died recently due to illness, leaving the poor women in dire straights. Though I cannot speak for her, I assume she wanted to provide for her child and chose to give him up to his noble father. Her whereabouts are unknown, though based on everything I have read, I assume she too is, or was sick. It is likely she is dying, or has already expired.

On the same day, new arrivals entered the city and were evaluated as potential Rangers. Of the new crop, a few stood out as eligible for posting on Alpha Team. First to arrive was Ingrid, an Olaran Druid from nearby. Second, Arimar Blackstone, a dwarven Druid healer from Stahlheim. His posting to the team was ensured by the weighty diplomatic pressure of the embassy. The last new member to arrive the day was a transfer from a Wildlands team, Corporal Sssahliissstah, a dregordian Adept, warrior, and healer. With her training and experience, she was chosen to assume the second command position within the team after RFC Grendel who was slated for Promotion.

Dark Moons 12th, 3126

At around 11 AM, all former and current members of Echer’Naught’s Alpha Team were invited to a private ceremony at the Regional Headquarters. In addition to formally introducing new members of the team, Colonel Anderson wanted an opportunity to recognize the superlative actions of Alpha Team and personally oversee promotions. Included in the room were Captain Hawksclaw, Sergeant Major Longtail (recently promoted), Sergeant Ravenwood, and her husband Sir Regillus of House Wolfhaven. Also in attendance were the current survivors of the team, along with the recently retired Master Daynore. Sadly, Colonel Wolfhaven himself could not attend as he is at the Northern Front.

RFC Grendel was Promoted to Corporal

Corporal Nexus Zathaln was Promoted to Sergeant and given official diplomatic posting

RFC Ranna was given personal Commendation for her valor.

After the ceremony, Colonel Anderson hosted a small reception and mingle. None of Alpha Team, of any generation, seemed particularly enthused. Though, must ado was made over the Nexus’ surprising reproductive ability as she seemed to accumulate children at a staggering rate. RFC Moldova lamented that her child had yet to be born.

Later that evening, far after hours, Ranger Aronzo arrived. Colonel Anderson spoke with him briefly, privately. Afterwards, I was instructed to draw up paperwork to assign him to Alpha Team.

Dark Moons 13th, 3126

The following morning, the NEW Alpha Team was gathered in Colonel Anderson’s office for the official signing ceremony. Corporal Sssahliissstah, Ranger Ingrid, Ranger Armiar, and Ranger Aronzo all join Alpha Team effective the 13th of Dark Moons, 3126, having all previously completed their basic training. The new command structure was established. Newly minted Corporal Grendel commands Alpha Team, Corporal Sssahliissstah in second. RFC Ranna serves as third in command. After the signing, Colonel Anderson assigned the team their first mission.

The Royal Sheriff of Echer’Naught, Sir Halten, has reported an issue with the tax collection in the Northern Baronies. Apparently, the gold arriving in the city is less than reported by the Barons, and yet, no investigation has been able to determine how, or when, said gold has been taken. Once assigned, and Corporal Grendel, and RFC Ranna accept the mission, Alpha Team is dimissed.

As they depart, a new Ranger Trainee, McKenzie Shan enters. With a recommendation for Alpha Team, Colonel Anderson asks Corporal Grendel to return, and accept the newest member of the team. Having not completed her training Ranger Trainee McKenzie Shan joins Alpha Team in the light green cloak of a Trainee.

Outside, I noted the team stopping to discuss plans, and were met by Colonel Wolfhaven’s son, Sergeant Alfred Wolfhaven and Eve. Afterwards, the Sergeant had private words with Colonel Anderson. I also learned that Trokash visited the Rangers, buying them lunch, he “sold” back to Grendel his everwood club, and Ranna’s greater crossbow. Both ogres declined the golden plate. It would seem that the infamous trader managed to loot the battlefield where the team had been captured and was turning a profit selling personal items back to the Rangers. Despicable.

While Trokash did not approach the Rangers, I know that he personally delivered Thorgram’s shield to Baroness Wolfhaven. He also returned Volstagg’s armor, sword, and Lady Zathlan’s hammer. I am unsure his “angle” but I dislike the Rangers having any business dealings with the orc. He is oily.

During this time, I also had the unfortunate duty to route the last will and testaments of RFC Danica, and the former Ranger Zulcrum to the proper authorities, as well as, have Sergeant Amaroth’s Will delivered to RFC Moldova. Danica left Muriel and King to Grek and Lieutenant Celebor. When contact, Celebor declined to travel all the way to Almahrad to fetch them, preferring to send Tina, Tiny, and Max…the goats. Ascended preserve us all. Thomas left his armor, which was also added to the Vault.

What Sergeant Amaroth said privately to Moldova, I do not know. But I do know that by sundown on the 13th, paperwork had been finalized inducting Moldova a citizen of House Wolfhaven, and her child, Sworn, pending their coming of age ceremony. Of Audric, we have no word. Not even Trokash seems to know. Serys’ body was too badly burned to be salvageable, his equipment reduce to slag and ash. Of Audric, nothing. He may yet live, which may, or may not, be a terrible thing.

While I busied myself with such sad duties, Corporal Grendel dispatched Corporal Ssahliissstah to requisition supplies for the team from Sergeant Major Stormhammer, while he took the rest of the team to the City HQ’s stables to requisition wagons and mounts for the team. There, they met Sergeant Tina receiving orders to fetch Muriel and King. Again, she is a GOAT. While at the stables, they also recovered Ranger Shan’s bear, Volstagg…yet another Volstagg, and her mount, Diego.

After which, Alpha Team departed the city via the North Barony gate and headed north. I received word that they had stopped at a Roadside Inn about half a day’s ride north of the city. There, they set up camp while beginning their investigation into the mission taxes.

Grendel's Report

Grendel grow tired of doing nothing, and me think so does the team. Nexus grows bigger everyday and I think Volstagg grows even more worried. I can’t blame him from what has happened. Even Grendel is concerned for what will happen to his gather. The days grow colder and the snow gets deeper, we are not going anywhere soon.

All this time on Grendel’ s hands is scary, now that we aren’t being chased by the smell of blood and sulfur. We were saved by people who use to be slaves apparently and they seem nice enough. But Grendel never not be in danger and it is weird, so he do something me never do before…. pray.

I still not sure of the silver light but I try to understand. I break away from the camp and stare at snow “praying” that someone answer. Then snow turn silver.

I look at new strange color snow and look up to see lone tree, it silver too. And standing next to it is a troglodyte, hobgoblin, and troll. Me get ready to fight but they not looking at me, they looking at tree. That when the tree glow and big flash blinds Grendel for a moment. When me can see again there standing is a goblin, orc, and ogre. Me think I understand that this silver light may be linked to the gathers and maybe it save us from what we truly are. Grendel scared at this thought, but it make me think something, maybe this be how me save my old gather. And maybe me can save Wendel, but it may also be how me protect new gather. That all.

Some time in the early morning, Alpha Team, with Braun Olar, having recently escaped the Unchained camp, were hunted down and attacked by a pack of Hellhounds led by a Ravening Beast. According to Sergeant Audric Amaroth during the fighting, the Ravening Beast was the very same he slew in the Blood Pits. Based on our own Flame Slayers, Ravening Beasts, once summoned, always return. Further analysis suggests that this particular creature might be bound in some way to Audric through Thaumaturgical blood magic. It would have most likely hunted him exclusively until eventually bringing Audric down.

Though, of sad note, it was also the attack of that beast, and the threat on the former Ranger Danica, which caused his initial fall to Flame. Considering how events transpired, there is some theory that the beast may have been a piece of a larger plot, specifically to turn Audric. To what end we cannot say.

Lieutenant Volstagg, Sergeant Amaroth and Serys held the line, covering the rest of the team’s retreat. RFC Grendel dragged Corporal Zathlan behind him as he ploughed through the deep snows. RFC Ranna dragged RFC Moldova who clutched an unconscious Corporal Daynore in her litter. Due in no small part to timely assistance from the Olaran, Braun, Volstagg and the others slew the pack, but the beasts had done their work to delay the Rangers. Kal calvary appeared, riding down the team.

Fortunately, the deep snow slowed the pursuing Kal, allowing the Rangers to evade. The chase lasted to the wee hours of the morning. Just before dawn on the 30th, Alpha Team crested a ridgeline, tumbling over the sheer cliff into a snowbank. As they clawed their way free, Sergeant Amaroth spotted a Tempest Castra dominating the valley before them with a clear field of fire for hundreds of yards in every direction. With the Kal cavalry moments from riding over the ridge, the Team was caught between a rock and a hard place.

Lieutenant ordered the team forward, and then began shouting commands at the Tempest in their own tongue, directing their fire at the cavalry. Under stormfire cover, Alpha Team reached the Tempest Castra. Though tense at first, Lieutenant Volstagg was surprised to see “Tempari”, the Tempest Magus they had worked with in the desert.

Tempari ordered that Alpha Team be healed and fed. While there, he also had his artificer examine Corporal Daynore and Corporal Zathlan’s collars. Daynore’s he reported as being an “unbreakable” artifact, nearly shattered by Daynore’s power. Whatever creature has possessed the Adept is far more powerful and dangerous that we imagined. As for Nexus, her collar was confirmed to be even more advanced and of a make not of this Realm. Though, Tempari claimed it was not of Tempest make.

Based on the recent revelations around Xaos, it can be assumed that the collar was purchased from outside Shaintar. This begs the question from where and by whom? For security reasons, Sergeant Minor Longtail, on orders from the Colonel, have been circumspect in exactly WHO has been handling arrangements to recover Alpha Team. In fact, I believe that Longtail even outsourced everything.

No part of the support or rescue operations for Alpha Team from the Defiant Lands have been handled, organized, or funded by anyone currently or formerly a member of Grayson’s Gray Rangers. Moreover, none of the operations have been overseen by anyone currently residing or working in the city of Echer’Naught…

Curious.

Healed, fed, and informed, Tempari’s scouts alerted the Castra to the arrival of Kal forces. Tempari informed the team that the hill castra was only their forward scouting operation. A larger, more heavily fortified castra was behind lines nearby.

As troubling as this revelation is strategically for operations against Tempest, tactically, retreating behind Tempest lines served the immediate needs of the team. Providing a single Explorator scout, Tempari sent the team to the main Tempest castra while he “dealt with” the approaching Kal.

Why Tempari seemed so willing to assist the team remains a question. I suspect that had events not transpired, their stay would have been involuntarily long. Regardless, Tempari was not seen again and his scout castra was presumably destroyed by the Scorched Priestess and her Tor Sadais guard.

It took the better part of the 30th to push through the deep snow, but late on the same day, Alpha Team arrived in site of the castra…

…only to find it destroyed and the garrison slaughtered.

After the Explorator cleared the fort, Alpha Team arrived to find the main gate shattered, holes blown through the walls and the remains of the Tempest garrison lying scattered about. Alpha Team examined the carnage and agreed on two facts. First, the Kal did NOT destroy this castra. Second, the attacking force used some variant of arcfire, and alien weapons similar to, but distinct from, Xaos. Tapping into the creature inside, Corporal Daynore reported visions of nine foot spears, which was consistent with the holes punched clean through Tempest armor. Clearly, there is more happening in the Defiant Lands than reports indicate…which might explain Colonel Wolfhaven’s reasoning for placing the Legio Heroes keep on the west side of Tar’Imas. Idly, I am curious how much more aware he is of what is actually occurring beyond our borders?

The Explorator and Alpha Team cleared the ruined castra finding no one alive, but no sign of the attackers. They DID find tracks indicating this new foe fought in a large, block formation style unknown to any armies within Shaintar, but little else. Once certain none of the enemy remained, the explorator directed the Team to recover and secure the fort until he, or Tempari, returned, and then he departed to report the attack to the scout castra.

Alone, Lieutenant Volstagg proceeded to raid the arcfire supplies and search the area, Sergeant Amaroth took RFC Grendel and RFC Ranna to fortify the longhouse. Serys scouted, with Braun on lookout. Late in the eve, Corporal Zathlan went into labor, and a pregnant RFC Moldova tended to her.

Hours later, with Nexus still in labor, the Rangers convened to discuss the situation, but were interrupted by a shout from Serys. Lieutenant Volstagg and Sergeant Amaroth mounted the gate steps to peer into the gloom. Picked out against the white of the snow were two figures, the hulking form of the Tor Sadais, and the diminutive figure of the Scorched Priestess. Just outside of even Sery’s range, they stopped, the Tor Sadais lifted and beheaded the Explorator and casually tossed his body aside.

It would seem Tempest fared about as well against the Kal as they fared against whoever destroyed the castra. Once the Kal appeared, Lieutenant Volstagg ordered his troops to the wall, leaving RFC Moldova with Corporal Zathlan. While the Rangers formed, the Scorched Priestess summoned a Horde Champion, and then used High Magic Teleport to drop the demon behind the castra’s defensive wall, splitting the Ranger defense.

Immediately, the demon laid into the Rangers, inflicting grievous wounds, while destroying the entire gate structure with fire breath. Both RFC Grendel and Ranna were crushed under the rubble, along with Corporal Daynore. Lieutenant Volstagg, Serys, and Braun were trapped outside the ruined gate, facing down the still approaching Kal, while Sergeant Amaroth was trapped inside with the demon, being bathed in hellfire.

However, before the Horde Champion could finish, a crystalline DRAGON burst from the rubble and set upon the demon. Though the dragon appeared to ignore the Rangers, it neither avoided harming them. Sergeant Amaroth, equipped with little more than an iron longsword fell back as a last line protecting the longhouse and the pregnant women within. Lieutenant Volstagg attempted to shoot the demon with a recovered arclance, but the weapon fizzled. He never got a second shot, as the Tor Sadais closed within striking range.

The three warriors outside the gates braced for the attack as the Tor Sadais sped into melee with Volstagg. As a member of the Emperor’s personal guard, the Tor Sadais are peerless warriors, known for brutality. Were he fully healed and well armed and armored, Sir Volstagg might have stood a chance. But, run down like a wounded stag, the Olaran knight was powerless. With a single blow, the Tor Sadais dismembered him at the right elbow, then punted him into the rubble.

Serys shouted for Braun to drag the wounded knight back inside, while he laid down covering fire, but to little avail. Behind them, demon and dragon grappled, the larger dragon gaining the upper hand. With one last savaging, the dragon slew the demon, sending him back to the abyss. What he would have done then, is only speculation.

At the moment Volstagg fell, his wife, Lady Zathlan, gave birth to their daughter, the first of two twins. No longer amused by the hunt, the Scorched Priestess drew upon her power and shattered Corporal Daynore’s Dragon spell, dropping him to the ground, fatigued and spent. She then ordered the Tor Sadais to stand down, and present the Team with a choice: A) Surrender Nexus’ twins (how she knew they were twins is a topic of debate) and Daynore, B) All die while the children and adept be taken anyway. They were given on hour.

Why she did this is another point of contention and speculation. Perhaps she truly believed the dire circumstances would compel the team to capitulate. Though, if she knew anything about the Alpha Team, or Rangers in general, she must have known they would never agree. Or, perhaps there is a more sinister calculation?

We know that she spoke to Sergeant Amaroth during the orgy in Kal Montak, and at that time suggested the two of them have a conversation “once all of this was over.” And, as previously mentioned, the Ravening Beast seemed to be intent on hunting down Audric in particular. Some believe that at a certain point, seducing Audric became a higher priority than capturing either Daynore or the twins. It is also possible that she realized that she could not contain whatever has taken over Daynore, so she abandoned that operation. Why she also allowed the twins to escape…perhaps it has something to do with the unbreakable collar from another Realm around Nexus’ neck. Or, perhaps she grossly miscalculated Alpha Team?

Whatever the truth, true to their word, the Scorched Priestess and the Tor Sadais waited outside the keep while the Alpha Team decided what to do. With only an hour left before some, or all, would die, options were limited. Firstly, Daynore used his skills to heal Volstagg, Grendel, and Ranna. Sir Volstagg, minus his arm, first held his children in his arms. Meanwhile, Amaroth and Gracely Moldova went in private to talk, and ultimately, say goodbye. Interestingly, Grendel and Ranna also had a quiet moment alone.

While most of Alpha Team spend the hour making peace, Braun stood guard while Serys formulated a plan. He had found an old, partially collapsed smugglers tunnel out of the keep. With all the ordnance left over from Tempest, his plan was to rig the keep to blow, then evacuate everyone but two rear guard. They would delay the Kal long enough for the others to get clear of the blast zone. As Volstagg has the only training in arcfire, he would have to be the last to evacuate, and the closest to the actual detonation.

Serys chose Sergeant Amaroth, who quickly volunteered for the mission. With the last of their time, the Rangers made preparations. At just under an hour, Alpha team, minus Serys and Sergeant Amaroth crawled into the small, dark tunnel. Serys’ last act was to give Volstagg his family necklace to be returned to his home via the Rangers. Then, while Serys and Audric engaged the Tor Sadais and Scorched Priestess, the rest of Alpha Team, with Braun fled.

The battle, so far as we can tell, was brief. Volstagg waited as long as he could, but was forced to detonate the arcfire devices while he, Grendel and Ranna were still in the tunnel. Fortuantely, Braun, Durlan, Nexus, and Gracelyn made it out, and RFC Moldova used Jack version 2 to dig them out. Corporal Daynore healed them again, and they fled the scene of destruction, leaving a massive column of smoke, ash, and debris rising into the sky behind them.

White River 31st, 3126

They ran all night, and into the morning. Both RFC Grendel and Ranna were naked, having to strip to squeeze through the narrow tunnel, and Grendel had lost an eye, Ranna a shattered leg during the fighting. Volstagg, minus an arm, carried his son. Corporal Zathlan, hastily cleaned and sore from childbirth, ran with their daughter. RFC Moldova was still nine months pregnant, fighting through the snow. Only Braun and Corporal Durlan Daynore remained in relatively good condition. Though, Braun had taken a few hard blows during the previous nights flee from Kal cavalry.

It was min-morn under a gray and snowy sky when the tattered remnants of Alpha Team arrived at Site Defiant. Here, a coalition of sellswords, mercenaries, and various “allies” had established a base site to recover Alpha Team and permanently end any pursuit. Collecting the personnel and resources had taken months, and the expense was exorbitant. To be honest, I am actually unaware of the cost and time as, again, no Rangers or Ranger resources were used.

Sir Hevain, a contact from Olara was in nominal command. He, along with “our friend” the assassin, and Trokash waited in the “sheltar” for the Team. Once Alpha Team arrived, they were fed “sea spiders” and “sea bugs” fresh from the Wayfarer’s Rest, given healing and supplies, and then mounted when Eve, also in attendance, arrived to warn of the Kal approaching. Eve and Trokash led the team away on horseback as the trap at Site Defiant was sprung.

Wolfhaven’s Rekin Kru, i.e. Fekla and Grek, along with a “reformed” Korash, held the main line. Other allies, over already mentioned, attacked from screened positions. The entire “structure” was a powerful illusion spell which was dropped with the trap was sprung. Reports confirm the Scorched Priestess, along with allies, DID engage with the team at Site Defiant, but she was not killed. Though, a number of allies were.

Trokash and Eve led the team east on horseback for three days.

White River 33rd, 3126

In the 13th hour on the 33rd, the Alpha Team, along with Braun, arrived in Tar’Imas. In the confusion, Braun departed their company with Trokash, while Eve took the rest to the elves Sacred Grove. There, she used her immeasurable power to teleport them to Echer’Naught’s grove where Treesinger and Sergeant Alfred Wolfhaven waited. Alfred took Corporal Daynore into protective custody, while the others were escorted to the City Hospital (formerly Red Lamp) for treatment. There, their wounds were healed, and all were treated for privation and exposure.

Dark Moons 3rd, 3126

After three days of rest and recuperation, Alpha Team was permitted to leave the Hospital, though all were pulled from active duty pending evaluation. Moreover, each member of the unit was briefed on their current status and given time to decide what course of action they wished to take.

Lieutenant Gunther Volstagg has been offered the Post Commander position in Almahrad. His acceptance would come with a promotion to Captain, a significant pay increase, and diplomatic immunity.

Corporal Nexus Zathlan, House Volstagg was also offered a post in Almahrad as her husbands Senior NCO along with a promotion to Sergeant, pay increase, and diplomatic status. In addition, we received a last minute report that indicated Nexus and Serys were related. Per an investigation by an Adept of the Echer’Naught’s Church of Light Citadel:

“Sideria Alorian (Nexus Zathlan) was born on Forest Dance 1st, 3104 in a small fishing/trading village on the west bank of the Crystal Lake to her parents, Miria (Eldakar) and Rellar Aloran (human). Miria’s twin (Essania-Life Bond), Niria and her husband Roland Korvar, also lived within the village with their two children, Sysvayanya and Serysvarya (Sys, and Serys). Miria (Mother) was a known healer, Niria a renowned weaver, Rellar (Father) a merchant, and Roland a fisher.

Late Dancing Clouds 3104, their village was raided and destroyed by Prelacy raiders. Both Rellar and Roland were slain defending the village. Miria, Zathlan’s mother, was trapped in their home, burning to death. Niria felt her sister die, and presumed Zathlan died in the flames. However, Miria managed to shove her daughter into the hands of a fleeing villager who bordered a boat with other refugees.

Zathlan travelled via ship to Lakehold, where, presumably, her savior died from wounds. Zathlan’s basket, however, was found in the tall lake grass by Lord and Lady Zathlan who had been called for defense in answer to the Prelacy raids. They chose to take in the infant once they found she had no family.

Meanwhile, a devastated Niria left the village and eventually settled in Tar’Imas, continuing to weave. Both children fought in defense of their home during the War of Flame 3121-3123. After the war, Sys left home to join the Rangers, eventually she would be killed in the Wildlands under command of Mugin Von Dietrich sometime in Dancing Clouds, 3123, shortly after the war. Von D would return her necklace, spear, and bow to the Rangers, who would then ship her effects to Tar’Imas.

Her younger brother, Serys, would not receive the effects until 3125, when he would begin a quest to hunt down those responsible for his sister’s death. In Falling Ice 3126, Seyrs joined the Alpha Team as a guide on their mission to find a plague cure in his home of Tar’Imas. He joined the team on 16th of First Hunt, 3126. Serys would battle alongside his cousin until his death, Dark Moons, 3126. Upon his death, he asked Sir Gunther Volstagg to return his sisters necklace to Sergeant Major Stormhammer to be returned to his only family."

Sergeant Audric Amaroth, Sworn of House Wolfhaven has been labeled MIA, though, when allied assets arrived at the battle site, Audric’s body was not among the fallen, or the rubble. Based on reports of his slide into Flame, we fear greatly that he has been taken by the Scorched Priestess, willingly or not we cannot say. At the very least he is presumed compromised, potentially now a threat.

Corporal Durlan Daynore was given three choices. First, he could have his power permanent bound, and rejoin the Team after significant evaluation, but he would permanently be pulled from the chain of command, though he would retain his rank. Second, he could retire will full pension, though unless he allowed himself to be bound, he would be banned from Ranger outposts, or contact with Rangers for security reasons. Third, we have been contacted by an interested party who believe they can lift or remove whatever is inside Durlan, though they are not sure if his memories or magic would remain intact. Nor can the guarantee success. Assuming they WERE successful, they would insist on Durlan working with their organization so they might study the effects. He has yet to choose an option.

RFC Grendel and Ranna both were healed and have commendations pending in their files.

RFC Gracelyn Moldova has officially requested Maternity Leave, though this being her second extended leave from Alpha Team, this separation may be permanent. Still, she is a valued member of the Rangers and will be top pick for nearly any posting

Serys died a hero, saving his team, and his family. His death eliminated the need for a scheduled investigation into his behavior during this latest mission. He is being promoted to Ranger First Class posthumously and his benefits are being sent directly to his mother in Tar’Imas. Lieutenant Volstagg and Corporal Zathlan have been tasked with informing Sery’s mother of his death and returning the Necklace.

This leaves only a few unanswered questions. Has Audric fully fallen to Flame? Was his seduction ultimately the aim of the Scorched Priestess, and if so, to what end? There is also the birth of Serys Roman Volkstagg (boy) and Wynter Night Volkstagg (girl). Ranger healers confirm that they are, like their grandmother, Essania. More interesting is that after their healing by the Emissary, they were bestowed with greater than typical magical potential. To what extent, we don’t know. And then, there is the band around Nexus’ neck. We, as of yet, have no means of removal. In fact, we do not yet fully understand its power. Then, there is the matter of this new enemy fighting Tempest in the Defiant Lands. Recently declassified reports suggest that these warriors are in fact Spartoi, or some derivation, from yet another Realm. From the last Long Recon mission, these warriors seek to Liberate and Rule Shaintar, for our own well being. Benevolent, though Dictators. And, was the Tempest scout castra destroyed? We do not yet have accurate repordts. Clearly, more is happening in the Defiant Lands than we know.

Still, Alpha Team is returned, and all the children saved. The mission was a success. It is time to mourn, celebrate, rest, and appreciate everything fought so hard to protect.

Winter Camp

Filed White River 29th, 3126

Serys,

White Stagg 26th, 3126

We marched till dark. Kal troops were within 8 miles of us, the destruction of the village revealed that. However, we were tired. Sergeant Amaroth suggested pushing on, but Lt. Volstagg ordered a rest. We fortified the camp as best we could, took about an hour. Then we bedded down to wait.

Normally, I would not have slept, but being hunted like this…

RFC Grednel and Sergeant Amaroth were on watch. Later, they described hearing the sounds of flapping flags on into the 13th hour between the 26th and 27th. That was when the first bombs hit. Gargoyles dropping blast potions. What kind of suck monster would think of such a thing?

I was ripped awake, and tossed like a rag doll in a gale. All around was screaming, roaring and burning flesh. Before any of us could get to our feet, were heard the pop pop pop and gibbering of thratchen. Thratchen, had to be the little demon goatmen.

One of their curved blades nearly took my head off as I rolled to my feet. We were bunched up. I was nearest Braun. To my left, Audric. above me, so to speak, Lt. Vosltagg and Zathlan. Volstagg had rolled on top of his wife to shield her from the worst of the bombing, or to get in one last poke before he died. Not quite sure. Moldova was snuggled up near Audric’s bedroll. Ranna was over near Grendel’s but not TOO near. And, Daynore was floating out here alone, per usual.

Everyone but the Lt and his wife were on their feet, weapons drawn. Thratchen popped in and out, slashing in the dark. I scanned the sky and picked a dark shape out against the backdrop of stars. One shot, and there was a high keening screech and a massive fireball in the distance. Then, a shout from Daynore…riders approaching from the west.

And then in made sense. The thratchen pinned us, making it impossible to run. Normal doctrine was to huddle up, back to back, and wait for the bastards. However, that made us perfect target for the circling gargoyle bombers… Pin and Pincher. Olaran strategy. Use the lightest troops to slow the enemy just long enough for your heavier forces to close in for the kill. The whole gargoyle thing was just mad genius.

We were caught in the trap. Audric scored first blood, chasing a goatman out of camp, though I don’t think he killed it. Ranna scored another hit. Grendel maybe? Hard to tell in the flame and shadows. Then, a beam of pure, purple energy lanced into the sky, skewering one of the gargoyles. The childer simply evaporated. I downed two more, conventionally.

Volstagg spent so much time trying to keep Zathlan safe that he was taken out early on, per usual. Then, she decides to pick up his sword and die valiantly, wasting his efforts. We also lost Moldova. Seems the thatchen considered her a threat after all.

Even so, the horsemen were moments away and we were down the Lt, Moldova, and Daynore and I were sporting wounds. Our final stand would be there…

…when figures pour out of the trees led by a dwerg and a scruffy looking mercenary. Behind them, more warriors, a strange hodgepodge of men and women.

They fell on the thratchen, their leader, shouting for us to fall back while they covered us. Sergeant Amaroth confirmed the order, then held his ground while we disengaged. I dropped the goatman Zathlan was waddling toward to break her out of her berserk rage, or hormonal tantrum. Grendel grabbed Volstagg, Daynore grabbed Moldova and we quit the field as our new “allies” formed a skirmish line to meet the oncoming horse.

White Stagg 27th, 3126

Led by the new arrivals, we ran until mid day as a group, before we were split off into pairs. I joined Zathlan, and two of the strangers led us on a marry jog across hill and dale before arriving, late in a large encampment. Those of us wounded were tended, then fed. And then, as the temp dropped, herded to a dugout shelter while Lieutenant Volstagg, Sergeant Amaroth, and Corporal’s Daynore and Zathlan were all taken to the command tent.

Once our hosts left us, I slipped back to cover our commanders outside the meeting tent. I really shouldn’t have bothered.

Our new hosts were members of the Unchained, freed slaves revolting against the Empire. Their Captain, Kyshiri, had been paid handsomely to find and protect us. He also had a dwarf smith remove the collars from Volstagg, Amaroth (after some discussion), and Zathlan. Though, they immediately collared her with a far more powerful device, well, her husband did. Apparently this one was supposed to cloak her presence so we could not be tracked. Yet another gift from our generous patron. Daynore they left collared. Wise, though ultimately pointless.

After that, some inane babbling, enter Braun. And then, from the scouts who arrived just after us, the dwerg and scruffy looking turf herder entered the tent, and the temperature dropped a few degrees. Turns out, the dwerg was Rysak Ironblood, and the merc, Thomas Zulcrum, former members of Alpha Team. By the Ascended how many are there?

More interesting, there was bad blood between Volstagg and the two. But, seeing as how we were all on the same side now, they decided to let the past lie. Then, more babbling, and I got tired. So, I made my way back to my bedroll and slept.

White Stagg 28th, 3126

We mostly rolled out of our bedrolls by 10 AM. Rare for a team trained to wake before dawn. First things first, Grendel and Ranna bathed. Thank the eternal Ascended. For a bit, I was concerned the Kal were tracking us by scent alone. The rest of us, joined around the cook fire. Everything went well, until my companions started bearing their souls.

As it turns out, Sergeant Amaroth ran into RFC’s Graceylen Moldova’s mother in the slave pits, and waited till just then, WEEKS later, to tell her. She was…pissed, though I wonder if he isn’t the only one keeping secrets. Speaking of, Moldova’s pregnancy, like we all couldn’t tell. And then, the further stupidity between Volstagg and the cons. Considering Volstagg himself, intervened in Olaran law, whipped his pregnant wife nearly to death, sent her in to sleep with other men for information and then gave me permission to poison her… He’s riding a pretty high horse about two ex-Rangers following a lead without permission.

Of course, they did get Rangers killed, so I guess that’s his issue.

Mostly, we just avoided each other. Volstagg fussed over Zathlan. Amaroth did NOT fuss over Moldova, who gave him the cold shoulder mostly. Grendel pined after Ranna, who studiously avoided him. And Daynore crafted another sex toy.

Gray Winds 29th, 3126

For the next month, we rested, healed, and grew bored. I spent my time reviewing the Unchained security and watching our “protectors.” Something bothered me about their set up. This group was relatively small, no more than a couple dozen, which would not be unusual except that they had established dozens of watch stations scattered for MILES south, east, and west. Captain Kyshiri deployed more of his men as scouts than he retained at his main base. Defense in depth, but why…? could the Unchained be planning to slow the Kal down, or, more likely, the feelers were early warning…making our camp the bait.

Listening in on Captain Kyshiri’s briefing confirmed my suspicions. The Unchained, and our “patron,” could not be sure if and how the Kal were tracking us. Could they sense Daynore or Zathlan from distance? Would the collar be enough to cloak her from their senses? Based on the fact that the Kal had not discovered our location after a month’s time, perhaps the collars worked.

Shortly after Volstagg’s meeting with Kyshiri’s, he called a meeting with the team. Our orders were to make preparations to leave at short notice. There was, of course, the issue with Corporal Zathlan and RFC Moldova being in the last stages of pregnancy. I suggested constructing litters for the ogres. That would free of their hands, but allow us to safely drag the mothers to be along with us. Volstagg agreed and set Daynore to the task. Better that than melting our brains.

The rest of us packed, prepared, and drilled for a fast exit.

White River 29th, 3126

Time passed slowly as it always does during downtime. Camp life was hardly exciting, but it was nice not having someone trying to hunt us down. Still, we knew it would not last. Almost exactly a month after our prep meeting, the Kal found us.

I was resting in my perch on the south-west end of camp when I heard a shout. Rysak Ironblood and Thomas Zulcrum were running in from the outer pickets, shouting about an attack. Before I hit the ground, meteors streaked out of the sky, slamming into the main HQ tent, the infirmary, and the main lodging (where the team bunked). In the darkness, I saw dozens of plains-clothed assassins running through the snow, intermixed by a few dozen childer led by a massive minotaur.

Heat hazed around the Kal forces indicating an Acolyte present, but there were few of those. Volstagg and the others were just crawling out of the rubble when the wave of pain hit me. Instantly my vision blurred, my eyes, ears, and nose started bleeding and I was staggered by intense vertigo…

Daynore

His body rose out of the wrecked hut, vibrating so fast he looked almost invisible. All I could see, even with elven eyes, were the glowing crystal-blue zigzags where his eyes should be. There was not time, or point, in shouting a warning. In a flash of power, Daynore exploded, The wave struck the ground, buckling it like an ocean wave and hurling it at the Kal, with the ex-rangers caught in the middle.

The last I saw of Rysak and Thomas, they were being crushed beneath tons of earth, along with the advanced Kal forces. Fortunately, Volstagg already had Alpha Team moving. Everyone grabbed what supplies survived the blast and fled camp north east. Captain Kyshiri, surviving the first salvo, ordered his men to scatter. That was the last I heard, or saw, any of the Unchained.

The Rangers managed to strap Moldova and Zathlan into the slings on the move. Grendel grabbed Daynore out of the air and was nearly killed instantly. Braun joined us, hauling enough gear for an Olaran company. Apparently he had tired of running with nothing.

We had escaped, and Daynore’s stunt delayed pursuit, but we were once again out in the cold, being hunted, without support. It is only a matter of time before we are run down again. Still, I do not believe they can track us easily via magical means. They will have to hunt us down the old fashion way.

The attack also provided more information on the nature of our pursuers. I still content we are being hunted by three distinct groups. Further, of the three, one is led by the ex-Olaran tactician of the desert army, one is being led by the Scorched Priestess, and the last remains a mystery.

We know that none are working together. In fact, on numerous occasions, we have witnessed these factions in open conflict. Further, I believe the three factions can be identified by troop and tactics.

The Olaran Ex-pat relies on more conventional troops, and Olaran tactics, such as the pin and pincer attack when the Gargoyles bombed us. It was also his troops I witnessed being slaughtered on the banks of the river.

The Scorched Priestess has not made an appearance since our escape from Kal Montak, but I fear she is using the other two factions to run us down, before she swoops in for the kill. I would if I were her.

The final faction relies on plainsclothes mercs or Tor Mastak. We have yet to determine their motive, but they were responsible for our escape from the pits, and it was this faction that Braun betrayed just after Kal Montak. This faction killed the Olaran’s scouts and the river, and I believe THIS faction just overran our winter camp.

What this knowledge gains us, I do not know, but at least we have some idea of who is trying to kill us, or more likely, capture us. Daynore and Zathlan are the prime targets. The Scorched Priestess wants them both. The Olaran appears to only care for Zathlan. I’m unsure of the third faction, but they only had shackles for one, if the mysterious Burning Man was to be believed.

Now, we head east to Arkstone and pray we reach the city before we are cut down.

Wolfhaven's Ride from A'Davar to Tirene

After establishing defenses around A’Davar and coordinating for elven and dwarven reinforcments, Colonel Woldhaven relinquishes command of the city to the Prince of A’Davar. With a small retinue, the Colonel departs A’Davar, riding across the Defiant Lands to the newly established Legio Heroes’ “Legion Castrum”, before continuing on through the Evershade toward Lanier. Along the route, the Colonel’s retinue made stops in the liberated Gathers of Rool and Erlg before linking up with the White Silver Wolves in Tirene to finalize preparations for the assault on Lanier.
Covering just under 1000 miles in two weeks, Colonel Wolfhaven arrives in the occupied city of Tirene to assume command of the White Silver Wolves companies 1-4. Along with Captain Rorauk Fyrforg, Lieutenant Kornash, Captain Helt, and Captain Avaron, Wolfhaven stages the final march and assault of Lanier, Shaya’Nor’s last, and strongest hold fast in Camon.

Grendel's Report

Grendel have dreams lately. they strange and new, some me never have before. i wake up in forest that is dark and little light make it to ground. there no birds or animals making sound, like right before a bad storm would roll through gather.
Me then look down at what should be Grendel’s hands, but instead are grey dirty clawed hands, hands like a troll. i begin to fear for what me have become. that when me see it every time, a tree. it strange, not green or brown but silver. me not know why but feel good when looking at it. that when light come from tree and cover Grendel, then Grendel no longer troll. Me never be smartest but me know this mean something. not sure what it is yet, but in hopes of helping my brother and Gather, old and new, i will find out.

Golden Showers

Filed White Stagg 26th, 3126

Serys,

White Stagg 20th, 3126

We cleared the city, heading south and east. I rode with Corporal Zathlan. She was well equipped for a night ride through winter steppes while being pursued by Kal hunters. In that, I mean she was unarmed or armored, wearing a stylish, if garish, dinner dress.

The rest of the team fared little better. Lt. Volstagg was armored in plate, but had lost his weapon and been beaten unconscious by Sergeant Amaroth. The good Sergeant was kitted in full plate, and wielding a two hander with the full might and savage of his new mistress, Ceynara, behind him. Corporal Daynore, or whatever was wearing the Malakaran’s body was unconscious at the moment, unarmed or armored. Thought, to be honest, that actually made me feel somewhat better.

That left the pregnant Corporal Zathlan in command. Her first. Good time as any to start? After that, were the lovers, RFC’s Grendel and Ranna, both armed and armored. Strange to think the ogres of the group have the greatest sense about them.

I made sure to grab my full kit on the way out, but even that was cobbled together from what I could beg, borrow, or steal in Kal’Montak.

And then, there was Braun, the Olaran ex-slave. Bitter, aggressive, snarky, but a skilled warrior.
We managed to ride about a mile south of Kal’Montak before Corporal Daynore slipped from his saddle and was dragged. Close up, we could see that he was tortured beyond all recognition. I’ve faced ghouls with more life than his twisted and broken body. Whatever profane power had animated his body for the ride so far seemed to have finally burned out, leaving him a crumpled husk. Grendel rushed to help.

That and Sergeant Amaroth’s horse had had enough lugging two men in full plate. The poor beast started dancing in circles while the newly minted Kal warrior tried to keep Celesia’s personal pet from sliding into the mud.

While that carnival played out behind me a new actor entered the sordid performance.
Five cloaked figures emerged from the trees and approached. Though they were not brandishing weapons, they were clearly waiting on our party. Sergeant Amaroth dismounted with Braun, and stood too. I spun Zathlan around behind me and she took Volstagg’s reins. We were as prepared as we could reasonably be, given our situation.

They approached, hands out. The leader dropped his hood revealing distinctly Kal features. He said something in Kal, then, realizing our ignorance switched to broken Galean. He asked Audric if their friends in the city had helped them as agreed, and then commanded us to follow them to their master. I admit that walking right back into the arms of the Kal was not appealing. However, at the time, any shade in the sun, so to speak.
We were all set to do just that, when Braun went berserk. He ambushed the leader, and cut him down in one swing. The remaining Kal pulled bows and shot our horses out from under us. Volstagg got trapped and Zathlan struggled to free him.

The rest of us had no choice but to defend ourselves. Sergeant Amaroth ordered us to try and subdue the Kal, maybe salvage some truce. I figure he intended to deal with Braun himself. So, I blew him, Braun, and one of the Kal to the Abyss. The Kal died, Braun was badly stunned, Amaroth…seemed to enjoy the flames. Sadly, the Kal were now intent on killing us all, so any chance to salvage the situation was gone.

Sergeant Amaroth realized this, soon enough, and changed orders to kill. And so we did. I took a couple arrows to the chest for my troubles, but we finished off the Kal without major injury, save mine.

Only then did we realize Zathlan was gone. Casting about quickly, we spotted movement in the trees as if someone were being dragged away. And, there it was. Zathlan had been kindapped, again. Based on my count, that was three times in 24 hrs? Not counting my own rescue. Troubling habit.

We charged after to free her from her impending demise…only to find her already rescued by a lethal looking human in burned armor and cloak. The other’s couldn’t see, but he flashed a burned Corporal’s badge. I don’t remember him from Alpha Team reports, so the burning man may be the only Ranger in a hundred miles NOT a current or former member of Alpha Team. If it has done one thing, this mission certainly makes me wonder how many of Alpha Team, past and present, are still running around. Kick over a rock, and an Alpha scurried out. Its disturbing really.

He never introduced himself, but a cursory glance indicated a well trained operative, close quarter specialist. Knives. The accent was, well, forced. He invited us to join him back to his camp. So, without better options, and without horses, we followed.

A short distance away, but well concealed, burning man had a camp. And in that camp was none other than Graceyln Moldova and her creepy sex doll jack. I guess we kicked over another rock.

Seeing Moldova should have been a shock, but to be honest, given everything else…

As soon as we reached camp Braun and Sergeant Amaroth tore into each other. Audric demanded that he follow order, Braun called Audric a fool and a traitor. At any other time, the bickering would have been amusing. I was too busy pulling arrows out of my chest. While I worked, the burning man, interjected himself in the fight. Finally Moldova had to scramble the Olaran’s brains to let the contact get a word in edgewise. He provided a crude map, small sack of coin, and informed us that the Kal we just killed had been in the area for days, weeks? They were waiting for us, AND they had gear to bind one member of our party.

If it were Daynore, that makes sense. But, seeing as how they specifically kidnapped Zathlan it leads me to believe they might have been targeting her specifically.

Then, Sergeant Amaroth and Braun compared the size of their…swords. Professionally, Braun was right. Audric is compromised. He should relinquish command immediately. But, so long as he does not, my orders are clear. I let Braun know as much. To be honest, there is a high likelihood that I will be killing both of them before this is over. And Daynor. Maybe burning man too.

Once healed, and done with the unit’s idiocy, I headed off to watch out backtrail. And good thing. Less than an hour later, I spotted nearly 20 scouts in a skirmish line sweeping toward us. Apparently they found the bodies. We had to move. Sergeant Amaroth loaded the unconscious Volstagg and Daynore on Moldova’s, our only, mount. Then, we made our east. We had just reached the river, safety on the far side when Sergeant Amaroth stumbled into lead scouts. Everyone had to choose, stay and fight, or get free. Corporal Zathlan chose love, and crossed leading the horse with her husband and Daynore. The Ogres also split, presumable to protect her? Braun had been very clear that he would not risk recapture for any of us. Leaving me, and, surprisingly, Moldova. Or not so. They are screwing.

Moldova scrambled brains while Audric cut his way through. I provided cover. Until my wounds slowed me enough for their acolyte to put a lucky shot through my tree. Before blissful blackness swallowed me whole, I was gratified to see the confused and pained expression on the woman’s face when my arrow suddenly sprouted from between her eyes.

White Stagg 21st, 3126

And the NEXT thing I remember is waking up, lungs burning, the dark, with my leg trapped. I’ve drowned enough times to know where this was going. So, I reached down to unjam my leg and nearly passed out from the pain. Great.

Ok, arm broken, leg jammed and sprained, trapped, underwater, and already only a few heartbeats from drowning. Not the worst situation. But, blacking out again was death.

So, I gritted my teeth, grabbed the…rock?…and yanked. Somehow I managed to float to the surface and the current washed me ashore. There, I did pass out.

Woke again, half submerged in water, stuck in the mud and grass. Good thing, as I was lying a few feet from a Kal camp. Scouts. Lightly armed and armored. All mounted. From where I was lying I could smell their picket’s body odor.

Having nothing better to do, I lay there in the mud. It was surprisingly warm, and waited. Over the course of a few hours, I observed the dozen or so scouts, piss, crap, eat, argue, sleep, and pace. Though, I recognized the unit badges. These particular Kal were part of the unit we tangled with in the desert. At some point in the wee hours of a morning, not sure which, I was wakened by the sound of a body thudding softly to the bank. Figures moved through the camp methodically executing the pickets, guards, and finally the sleeping scouts. Tor Mastak, or something akin. Within minutes, nothing lived within the camp.

I stayed still, and they passed me by like the river trash I was. For hours I remained still, until reasonably certain that they were gone. Then, I gingerly crept into camp, fixed up a sling, procured some food and headed in an easterly directly.

Within a few hours, horsemen were thundering past me from all directions. I figured the team had blundered into another patrol, so I followed. When I entered the open steppes, I could see search parties moving all around. So, I played hide and go hide some more until I figured where the team was holed up. Naturally, they picked the biggest and most obvious rock formation. But, even though the Kal scoured the butte, they managed, miraculously, to evade capture.

White Stagg 22nd, 3216

I waited till true dark, then slipped in camp. Fortunately the Sergeant and Ranna were on watch, so no trouble slipping in undetected. I figured, I was there, why not make a meal of it? Amaroth and Ranna did not seem too surprised to see me when I drew their attention.

Dinner done, I slept until the AM.

After our usual bickering, we headed out again. This time I took point, Sergeant Amaroth covered our back trail. We knew they were out there, circling. We had covered a short distance when everything went wrong.

Cutting through a dry creek, Lieutenant Volstagg stumbled right into a Kal scout. I learned later that his first indication of trouble was the stream of piss running down his breastplate. He froze, but was close enough to see that the man’s member had been “trimmed.” Only due to the scouts utter lack of attention were we not blown, but as soon as he went to shake, Volstagg was done.

That’s when…things got interesting. Before I could snipe the scout and the team make a break for cover, Corporal Daynore started to glow, his eyes burning like stars. That is when the headache started. A combination of the worst sinus infection and hangover of my life, the intense pressure made opening my eyes hard. But when I did, I was suddenly crouching in a thick mist ten feet thick. Overhead, stormclouds gathered, blocking out the sun till the day turned to twilight. Lightning flashed overhead, but no rain…or wind. Oddest, sounds were muffled and distorted.

The scout lost any interest in pissing, and we quietly slipped away. For three days we walked through the bizarre scape until on the third, about the same time of day Durlan started this, he suddenly passed out. And with him out, the mist faded, the sky cleared and all as it was before.

White Stagg 25th, 3126

About mid-day on the same day we reached a village. The team, carrying Daynore, camped in a blind I scouted, while Gracelyn and I, the only two not collared headed in to gather supplies.

A mean place, the village were farmers and herders. We were met by a large man, the headman speaking Kal. When he realized we spoke no Kal, he switched to broken Galean, but that was likely our first mistake. Per my suggestion, Gracelyn lied and said we were researchers. The man did not seem to care. All he cared was that we caused no trouble while in his village. We agreed, and went about securing provisions.

It took most of the day. Toward the end, as we prepared to leave, Gracelyn was approached by an old crone who handed her some herbs. After that, we returned to team with fresh food. Note, we had not eaten since entering the mist, three whole days.

Fresh eggs and roasted goat. Hard bread and cheese. Primitive, yes, but the best meal of my life. Afterwards, a revived Daynore, who claimed no memory of his ordeal, set about crafting a crude shield. The rest discussed our situation. One, Corporal Zathlan pointed out that Daynore’s effect was in excess of 50 miles, which is at least twice as large as the largest Tempest storm we have recorded.

Also, we discussed our route. As best we could tell, we had three distinct groups, all Kal, hunting us. One from the south, one from the west, and one from the north-west. I marked the scouts near the river as from the southern group, and connected with the Kal we faced in the desert. Presumably, those coming from the west are connected with the Scorched Priestess. That would make sense, though I am curious why she and hers have made no appearance? The northern group, we knows. But, based on our encounter south of the city, I believe that Audric’s former “friends” might be associated with that group.

None of which helps us. We also have recieved no communication from Echer’Naught, not even Moldova who says her last communication was around A’Davar which, coincidentally is also the time she linked up with the burning man. There is also Daynore, and the collars. All could be contributing factors. Our only other options would be to have Daynore try and make contact. I for one would prefer he not use his powers if at all possible.

After the good meal we slept well, for once. I woke, inspired, with a full belly, and had Daynore craft a crude bow. Its a worthless piece of trash, but it shoots. I could not be more pleased, given circumstances.

White Stagg 26th, 3126

We departed before dawn, continuing east and a bit north. About 6 hours into the 8 hour day, Audric spotted a column of smoke rising from the direction of the village. We needed no further evidence to tell us all we needed to know. The Kal had torched the village and were now within 6 hours of us, and mounted. We picked up the pace and camped the night. By tomorrow, the Kal will be on us again. Without support, we won’t make it another 24 hrs.

My left arm is broken, and I am down to four arrows. Lt. Volstagg is now armed with Gracelyn’s sword. Sergeant Amaroth is also armed and armored. Corporal Daynore is armed only with a shield and a knife, no armor. Corporal Zathlan is unarmed or armored. The ogres are armed and armored well. Gracelyn has whatever she has, and a fur lined coat, but she had to sacrifice both the horse and Jack as a diversion to escape Kal patrols. Braun is armed, armored, and itching for combat.

We have enough food for a day, or two at most. I smell snow in the air. We will freeze long before we reach Arkstone. This may be my last report. I’m not sure why I’m even writing anymore.

Fallen, Dead, and Gone (2017 Holiday Special)

The following represents compiled information gained through Ranger reports, local news, and sympathetic information sources.

White Stagg 16th, 3126

Alpha team had survived their encounters in the Blood Pits. The last bout was between RFC Danica and a pack of Ratzin seeking to devour a group of children. She lives, her charges did not. Her valor was unequaled. Knowing what we know now, it is all the more tragic.

We received word from the Emissary in Almahrad that Corporal Leaora Nazir and Ranger Newt were arriving at Kal’Montak by the evening of the 17th. She specifically requested that Lady Moonsilver not establish contact. Though it is unlikely, we cannot be certain that any such message would not be intercepted, or at least detected. And, based on our reports from Unchained and other prisoners recovered from Kal captivity, we believed the Alpha Team had been fitted with suppression collars. Because of this, they were unreachable by Telepathy regardless.

As of the 16th, the situation as we understood was: Lieutenant Volstagg, Sergeant Amaroth, and RFCs Danica, Grendel, and Ranna were all captive gladiators fighting in the Blood Pits. Corporal Zathlan was captive of Dair-Kron Kirall, the Olaran mercenary-turned war captain. However, opinions differed whether she was willing or unwilling. It was, in fact, Sergeant Minor Longtail who noted that, to protect a child, a mother should be willing to do…anything. Corporal Daynore was, to date, unseen since arriving at the Pits. Intel suggests that the Empire breaking him for information on relayed Farspeaker message. Loss of the intel would be catastrophic. Ranger Seyrs was still in city, and for all appearances operating under notice.

White Stagg 17th, 3126

None of the battles on the 17th featured members of the Rangers. Though, based upon Serys’ final report, we know that an Olaran Braun won a bout on that day. He appears to be acquainted with, at least, Volstagg though we do not have further information as to how. Local requests confirm that Sir Braun was a celebrated warrior, captured during the War of Flame. A minor noble, he was regarded as an honorable man and skilled fighter. It should be no surprise he has survived this long.

Late in the evening, the Emissary and Serys independently confirmed that Ranger’s Nazir and Newt had arrived at the waystation south of Kal’Montak. There, Newt camped outside while Leaora made “contact” with Serys. He passed her local currency, identification papers acquired on his own journey to the city, Disguise potion, and other substances. From there, Serys returned to the city, leaving the other team members outside the city.

White Stagg 18th, 3126

Serys made contact with Nazir and Newt in his hotel room. There, he provided more information, Disguise potions, and orders to leave him out of future designs. He planned to continue watch on the coliseum. Though rumors had abounded that the 18th would feature an end to the fighting, all events were delayed. This time, our information suggests that infighting among the Kal nobles resulted in the event’s delay. Later events confirmed that tensions among the houses is at an all-time high.

Serys continued his operations, and Nazir and Newt took stock of the city. There, they met local assets who set up a meet in a local bar, the [Redacted]. They began to gather intelligence seeking how to enter the slave pits, and the location of Zathlan and Daynore.

White Stagg 19th, 3126

Fighting resumed. In the morning, Sergeant Amaroth and RFC Danica were paired to battle what we believe to be a Hellhound Summoner, a pack of Hellhounds and even, perhaps, a Ravening Beast. The Ranger’s survived, but…all reports indicate that in order to protect Danica after she had fallen to the hounds, Sergeant Amaroth called upon the powers of Ceynara. If this is true, I cannot help but fear for the repercussions. No one can doubt his intentions, but the lessons of Vainar and Ceynara are cautionary tales. She fell for love, and he trying to protect the world from Darkness. All of the best intention cannot absolve a soul given to Flame. Ascended let it not be true. Colonel Wolfhaven will be devastated.

Again, Zathlan was seen “entertaining” Kirall in the box seats. At least she appears in good health. I pray that her conversion is feigned. The longer our Rangers stay under, the more at risk they become. If the liberation is unsuccessful, we may not have anyone to save, or anyone wishing to be saved.

Later that eve, RFCs Grendel and Ranna were paired against three other ogres. Strangely, the Alpha ogres are known in the Pits as the Lovers. Has time in captivity sparked a romance? It is hardly unheard of. They too won, but local news intercepted makes it seem that Ranna seduced one of the opposing ogres to fight on her side. Though it seems out of character, who can say. We will do whatever it takes to survive.

After the last bout, there was a celebration to conclude the games. A Feast, or Orgy, was held and honored gladiators were invited to “entertain” the city’s Az-Dren and visiting Az-Fal. Among the group, reports indicated that Volstagg, Braun, Amaroth, and Robert Oxley, of previous reports, were present. Aagain, Zathlan dutifully entertained Kirall, even with her husband present. None of the reports bodes well.

There was a mention of Amaroth having a public word with the Scorched Priestess of Ceynara. A damning conversation. Volstagg also disappeared for a time, but no reports on who he might have met with. It is entirely possible he was “entertaining” one of the lords or ladies. Given the team’s mission in A’Tora, I fear we cannot consider any conduct beyond the group. Though, one can hardly blame them. They are trying to survive.

The orgy lasted till early morning, thought most of the guests, the gladiators and the host, Kirall, had retired. At that time, everything seemed normal, but a simmering rage was building in the city. And on the night of the 19th, or eve of the 20th, the tensions boiled over into civil war.

We know from “sympathetic voices” that Zathlan had been held in Dair-Kron Kirall’s personal abode within the city. In fact, it was a block from the coliseum just north, and heavily guarded.

At around, or just after the 13th hour, unknown forces attacked Kirall’s home in the city. It was not until later that local assets confirmed the target was kidnapping Zathlan. Since her capture on the filed during the final battle with Xaos in the Valley of Death, it was assumed that her child bore some special significant. Acolytes derive power from human sacrifice, and elf infants are the most prized of such sacrifices. If reports of the child, post the Emissary’s “healing” are to be believed, then Zathlan’s child would provide immense energy for such a ritual. A prize indeed.

It would appear that on the 19th, the temptation grew too great. But none of our sources suggested why then? It seemed that Kirall had successfully “claimed” Zathlan. And HE falls under protection of Dair-Az Lorask ki Gult. Who would have the temerity to attack those under the protection of the most powerful and famed warrior in the Empire…

Best analysts suggest that only the Scorched Priestess would even attempt such. And, the retaliation proved the point.

However, at the height of the 13th hour, magical sensitive people as far as five miles from Kal’Montak suddenly experienced a surge of power and energy radiating outward. Serys has confirmed feeling “something,” but claims to have slept through. Allied intelligence confirms that A) the center of the power pulse was the Temple to Ceynara in the city, and B) the feeling confirmed that a Cauldron, or some variation was opened. However, it is believed that the Ritual was never completed. The pulse was too short. That, and within an hour, the same complex was itself under attack!

White Stagg 20th, 3126

Early on the 20th, a few hours after the attack on Kirall and Zathlan’s kidnapping, someone brazenly attacked the Az-Junin complex the heart of the city. For a Kal to even THINK of such blasphemy…! Reports indicate that Dair-Kron Kirall retaliated against the “unprovoked” attack on his house, and the taking of his “hostage.” How he achieved success, we still do not understand. He WAS the tactical genius who planned Dair-Az Lorask ki Gult’s victory. And, he DID managed to sneak an entire Maelstrom army across the desert to ambush, and route Colonel Wolfhaven. Such a mind certainly could plan such an assault, but…to actually ATTACK a Temple to Ceynara?!

Whatever the case, local sources on the ground noted seeing a carriage leaving the city north at high speed. It was only later determined that this WAS Zathlan being moved out of the city to an estate owned by Dair-Az Lorask ki Gult, or his house. It seemed Kirall had recovered his prize. That same morning, with the dawn, criers announced the biggest fight to date. A post game bout. No expense was spared, and by mid morn, the seats were filled to overflowing.

It is ALSO here, that Serys informed command that he had made contact with a dwarven engineer overseeing rebuilding of the coliseum. Strange as that seems, it being a Kal city, the engineer was none other than RFC Gate Highwall, founding member of Alpha Team?! I confirmed with High Command that they had authorized HIghwall to be “loaned” to allies on a mission to gain intel on Kal’Montak and acquire plans and blueprints of the city in preparation for the impending war with Kal in the desert! He was not to be activated. However, they also confirmed that on the 18th, he had signaled his “handlers.” The Emissary confirmed, after the fact, that Nazir had made contact with Highwall and that a plan to free the team from the pits was in progress.

All of this information unknown to Regional Command at the time of the events. I have only just managed to confirm this with sources. I am unsure of exactly how many independent operations were running on the 20th, but I know that RFC Highwall, Seryrs, the Emissary, and local assets all had their own operations running. Worse, we believe, based on analysis that there were no fewer than four Kal factions ALSO operating in the same theater, though we cannot confirm that they did not, at points, collaborate.

Such was the situation on the ground when the final bout in the arena was announced, at noon. The Crimson Knight, Volstagg, would face The Boody, Amaroth, to the death in the arena. Even as the command staff of Alpha Team were forced to murder each other, Serys, Nazir, Newt, and Highwall put plans into motion. Nazir had confirmed that Zathlan was “most likely” being held at the estate north of the city. With the plans Highwall had stolen from his work site, Nazir would work with local assets to send a team into the pits to free the Rangers held there, while another team would attempt to free Zathlan.

When they arrived at the sight, to link up with Highwall, Serys activated and joined the efforts. He, ultimately, accepted the task of freeing Zathlan alone, allowing Nazir to put a team on locating and retrieving Daynore, if he lived. So, as the fight raged, Newt, Highwall, and a local contact entered the arena through still unfinished under structure heading to the slave pits below. Nazir and a local asset headed to Az-Junin complex, the most likely location of Daynore. Something about the sense of the Ritual suggested that he might be involved. Ever since his “gift” from the Shayakar in Paradise, his behavior and power had become erratic. It seemed plausible that he was imprisoned there, and perhaps that also might explain the Scorched Priestess’ sudden obsession with kidnapping Zathlan? Supposition, but the pieces fit.

The battle lasted about half an hour. Unfortunately, every report confirms out worst fears. In the final confrontation between Volstagg and Amaroth, Volstagg called upon the Unicorn, and Amaroth, Ceynara. He is touched by Flame. There is no doubt. Even should he survive, and manage to return, I cannot see any future in the Rangers, or the Southern Kingdoms.

We are still left with unanswered questions, but we know that the various operations were “successful.” Amaroth defeated Volstagg, but refused to end his life with a killing blow. That, at least, is to his credit.

However, at the moment of victory, something slammed into the north wall of the coliseum, shattering stone, and killing dozens, or more spectators. It opened a breach in wall. Through that breach, Serys rode, with Zathlan in his lap. Despite the fact that MULTIPLE reports confirmed that she had been watching her husband die from the box seats like every other fight, here she appeared with Serys, ostensibly recently rescued from the norther estate. Yet, we do not know for certain which Zathlan is real, if any?! The Emissary confirmed that Nazir located and “freed” Daynore from a heavily warded sarcophagus beneath Ceynara’s Temple, in a sealed room, under heavy guard. And yet, her report seems to indicate that Daynore was a charred, lifeless husk when she found him…?! Further information is lacking as he “exploded” rending her unconscious until hours later. Meanwhile, Highwall never reached the pits. He was apprehended, but managed to talk his way out, and exited the city with his team. Though, we suspect he is under heavy surveillance. As the arena was rocked above by the massive energy wave, similar to the pulse the night before, Grendel, Rana (both heavily armed) leading a slave revolt exited the southern, postern gate of the coliseum, Newt and Braun included. Amaroth ALSO appeared, carrying the body of Volstagg, though his condition is yet unknown.

As they spilled out into the streets, reports indicate the plain clothed assassins dispatched the Kal guards, and directed the team to waiting horses. The unknown allies remained behind to hold off pursuit. Amaroth carrying Volstagg, Serys holding Zathlan, Danica, Braun, and the ogres on foot reached the horses and mounted. But, Amaroth’s horse spooked. Grendel grabbed the reins to pull the beast when a flame whip coils from the smoke and ash, and snatched Danica from her mount.

Reports from the ground indicate that the Scorched Priestess had arrived with a large force of Kal, and a hunter from the Emperor’s own court. Without hope of saving Danica, the team spurred horses and fled south, out of the city.

While I am relieved to know that the Rangers are at least free, with the hope of escape, I, we, are left with some disturbing facts. At last report from Serys, every other member of the team is still collared. This eliminates our ability to communicate with any but Serys. Volstagg is down. Amaroth is Flame-Touched. We still do not know if Zathlan was turned, or they are riding with an impostor. Braun joined the party, but he is a potential Kal plant, or self serving mercenary who will betray them when it suits. And, Serys confirmed to see Daynore, mounted, riding with them. Daynore who, an hour before was described as “a charred, ruined husk.” Based on reports from the desert, Command is unsure exactly WHAT Corporal Daynore now is?!

Add to that, I have all but confirmed that the Scorched Priestess is on a mission directly from the Emperor. In fact, local assets have confirmed that Emperor dispatched one of his own personal guard, the Tor Sadais to lead the hunt for the escapees, though we suspect he is there to recover Zathlan, Daynore, or both. Dair-Az Lorask ki Gult has moved hunter units north. Reentering the desert is likely impossible. And, intercepts suggest that his rear guard around A’Davar are also under order to intercept. No doubt Kirall has his own force out hunting. This leave the mysterious faction which aided the slaves in their escape. We believe they serve either Fenrikas ki Arkor, Az-Ri of Kal’Montak seeking to undermine his rival, or a fourth, powerful faction serving their own ends.

Volstagg is down. Amaroth has Fallen. Daynore is lost. Zathlan pregnant and a beacon for their hunters. Serys is broken. Danica is dead. Our hope now lies with the Ogres.

Colonel Wolfhaven has been informed, but all his forces are bottled up protecting A’Davar under heavy assault. We have no other assets in the region. Every contact has bent toward reaching the Unchained. Ascended help them.

Battle of the Sudweid

Archanon be praised, the renown Celebor was within the Druidess’ sacred grove upon Hawksclaws arrival.

Under the command of Sergeant Major Magor Stormhammer’s authority, Grey Ranger Celebor, Ranger 1st Class Hawksclaw, Ranger Gate Highwall, Ranger Aradove Longtail and Ranger Scholar Grizhnak Olgor loaded a wagon and traveled south. By the time they arrived at the combined camp beside the road near where the attack on the tax caravan had occurred, the scene was a bonafide military encampment. The Royal Sheriff had summoned reinforcements bringing his total of troops up to nearly thirty. In addition, the Field Marshal Von Wrangel had brought in nearly forty of his own elite Hammerfell Riders. With the Rangers, that raised the total of troops in the field to just under eighty men at arms.

With that force, the wagon was secured and Rangers Hawksclaw and Celebor searched the ground and learned that the bandits had scattered, but that the gold had been loaded on two horses and a wagon, each heading in a different direction. The wagon struck out south east, the horses north east and west. Teams were sent to track each. Celebor to the north east, Highwall and Longtail with a Hammerfell scout to the north west and Hawksclaw alone to the south east. However, the trails were diversions sent to distract as they all eventually bent back toward the south west.

With this information, the scouts returned to report. Anxious to get underway and recover the days lost, Von Wrangel pushed forward, ordering the Rangers to take point in the growing darkness and track the foes to their nest. Throughout the long night, over sodden fields we rode, Longtail running holding the right flank with Hawksclaw on the left and Celebor the tip of the spear. I held the center, and with my sword alight, held out scouting party together. Through first light and into the mid morning we sped, heedless of caution. Only then did Celebor, our lead scout reign in. He had spotted the enemy camp.

Behind us, Von Wrangel and a column of Hammerfell riders pulled up short. They too had ridden hard all night and yet their lines were as perfect as on parade. Sir Halten and his men had been tasked with securing the wagon and the road behind.

Under Celebor’s direction, my men and I crept forward and crested a rise to look down upon a large encampment. More than one hundred men, bandits and brigands all, stirred in a semi-permanent camp. There was no telling how long these villains had been operating from the southern lands, but they would soon be stopped.

While Longtail crept into their camp to spook their horses and locate the King’s gold, Highwall and I would attack the enemy camp covered by Hawksclaw and Celebor’s arrows. Meanwhile, the Hammerfell riders would flank the camp and grind them under charging hooves.

The plan began with perfection. Unnoticed, Longtail slipped among them cutting the horse line and scattering the beasts. At that moment, I and Highwall charged, taking their pickets by surprise. Celebor and Hawksclaw rained death from the skies and all appeared well until a hidden Flame Acolyte summoned raging Minotaur who quickly sniffed out the Brinchie and gave chase. Fleet as the wind, Longtail led the beast on a merry chase, but was soon under assault from both childer and spellcaster. Meanwhile, the great range sent many of our archer’s arrows astray and their quick response slowed out foot advance to a crawl.

Only by the Ascended’s fortune was I finally able to reach the center of camp and catch the Minotaur by surprise. So focused on the destruction of Longtail was the mighty thing that he missed my approach. I cleaved in in a single blow. Longtail then was able to slow and engage the Red Store Bandit leader in combat. Hawksclaw found his range while Highwall clove through the enemy shield wall.

From somewhere to the west, and unexpected, but welcome surprise came in the form of elves who rained death upon the bandits. What complaint they had with our enemies, I know not, but their timely arrive tied down many would be combatants. Finally, in single combat I dispatched the Acolyte and with help from our arrows, Longtail all but vanquished the leader. Yet, using some sorcery, he slipped out grasp.

At this moment, with their command destroyed, the bandits wavered. Only then did their hear the sound of approaching thunder bringing their doom. Like an avalanche, the Hammerfell riders swept through the camp crushing the enemy before them. And with that, the battle was over. My men secured the gold and loaded it on a convenient wagon. We camped their that night, gathered the dead and treated the wounded.

The return to the Echer’Naught will be long and hard as the weather turned bitterly cold, but never before has the King’s gold been so secured. At final count, we recovered more than 80% and reclaimed out honor.

Each member of my team performed exceptionally. And with the destruction of the bandit camp, I pray that lawlessness in that region should be quite reduced. Now, we face a new threat, but not one of man, but of nature. Winter is setting in fully here and the days turn cool, the night frigid. Our humble outpost is still woefully incomplete, but I have the highest hopes for out future.

On the Trail of Bandits

Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Eighteenth Day, Harvest Moon, Year 3122 Under the Light

More troubles plague our lands. My team returned with little to report. No evidence of interference was found along the single passable road to and from the southern baronies. And yet, all was not well. Weeks passed before we received word from the Lord Mayor to proceed.

We were summoned to the base of the Beacon Hill, at the Greenway gate early in the morning of the 6th day of Harvest Moon when the land was covered in a thick layer of hoarfrost. There we met the Sheriff Halten and his men accompanying two heavily armored wagons. While the Royal Sheriff Lord Halten accompanied the decoy, my men escorted the true Tax caravan.

There should have been no way for anyone outside of the Lord Mayor’s circle to know the time and place of the caravan. And yet, on their return trip from the farthest barony, my scouts came upon a wagon broken down and obstructing the road. Yet, when they attempted to help clear the way, the “merchants” attacked them. It seemed, to my men, that these bandits were expecting my men in particular, the Rangers, indicating a surprising and terrifyingly detailed knowledge of not only our route, but the disposition of the guards.

Though they fought well, one of the villains managed to escape the skimish. Odd enough, they discovered that each of the attackers wore a red cloth tied around one of their arms. Some symbol of their allegiance. Rather than pursue the foe, they returned with honor to their primary task, to protect the wagon. What they found was too terrible to contemplate.

The armored carriage had been attacked, the tax gold taken and the guards destroyed.
Ranger 1st class Hawksclaw examined the scene and determined the guards had been betrayed by their own, nearly half of the King’s guards appeared to have been part of the robbery, though he was unable to determine in which direction the gold had been taken.

Exhausted and wounded in battle, my men, regardless of their own suffering, remained at their post until such time as reinforcements arrived. I was first on scene, but was soon followed by Field Marshal Von Wrangel. He and his Hammerfell riders assumed posts around the site waiting for the Royal Sheriff to arrive.

In camp the following morning, I was greeted by Sheriff Halten and Von Wrangel. They were dubious about the incident and tempers flared, yet, the Field Marshal set plans into motion. Ranger 1st class Hawksclaw was dispatched to High Druidess Treesinger in hopes of sending a message to the Gray Ranger Celebor, a renown tracker. In the meantime, my men gathered in Echer’Naught, all but the stalwart Grimbore who remained to protect the outpost.

Now, we race against time. Can we track the bandits before they disperse the gold beyond our reach? Time will tell. For now, we can only hope. With winter coming, the lands will become impassable. We must strike now or lose hope forever.

As Reported from Rangers at Large

After the destruction of the Builder factory near Thuls I found myself in another place. There I saw a being of chaos and storm the size of a planet. The Silver Unicorn and the Raven were able to call me back to them; however, the time in that place has made me stronger mentally but weaker physically. They tell me that the Tempest is causing the storms on our world and corrupting people on our world to take over places of power so it can use that power to spread its influence. It wants any and all sources of power to feed itself. Notify all Rangers to guard all places of power. If they come across these living cyclones they can be dispelled which destroys the creatures tied to it. If they are not able to dispel the cyclone destroying the creatures that appear from the cyclone cause the cyclone to dissipate. This enemy is a threat to the entire world we might consider telling not only our allies of the threat but also the Prelacy, the Dominion and the Empire of this threat.

Money Troubles

Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Twenty fifth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

As a whole, we are recovered from our recent events. My team has re-coalesced as a unit again, though there are issues that must be addressed. Still, finally, our issues at home have been settled such that we can begin our true mission, and it could not have come at a better time.
The Lord Mayor has personally requested our assistance in dealing with a matter of some import. Bandits have attacked the King’s Tax in the midst of the Northern Baronies. Exact numbers of the loss are being kept tightly restricted, but from what is unspoken, the loss is a significant threat. Oddly, the Lord Mayor did not request our aid in hunting these villains, rather, we have been tasked with providing additional security for future Tax convoys.
Another issue I have discussed with the Lord Mayor is the vulnerability of our town against the forces of Flame and Darkness, specifically in regards to eldritch and arcane powers. In response, I have been authorized to beseech the Church of LIght for assistance. Under that direction I have dispatched Ranger Longtail on a long range messenger mission to the Church Fortress in the capital city, Olara.
Meanwhile, I charged Ranger 1st class Hawksclaw to scout the southern tax route and identify potential ambush sites, choke points and hazards. Under my orders, Hawksclaw arranged for a wagon from our Dwarven allies in the Longhaul clan and a Druidess from the Druid’s circle. Together with “borrowed” habits from the self proclaimed “King of Lowtown” Fateweaver, my men planned to travel the route under the guise of religious pilgrims. Sergeant Major Stormhammer, Ranger 1st class Hawksclaw, the young druidess and Ranger Highwall departed this morn on their mission. I hope to hear from them within the week.

Otherwise, work on improving out station are under way. The newest member of our company, young Sarah has proven helpful in her tasks and already our abode shows signs of clean and orderly habitation.

Above, Below and Forward

Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Eighteenth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

I write these words with mixed feelings. On the one hand, I have completed the mission placed before my by my commanders. And yet, I have discovered troubling fact about my own men and more questions than answers regarding Echer’Naught. But, first, I must expand on my previous, rather rushed, report.

As previously stated, Ranger Longtail had been abducted by Ratzin forces of Flame and dragged below the town streets. When Ranger Hawksclaw and Highwall reported this to the Sergeant Major Stormhammer, they were given strict orders to maintain their position and secure the HQ while the Sergeant came to collect me from High Towne. Sadly, I must report, from his own testimony, that Ranger Gate Highwall abandoned his post, over the protests of Hawksclaw, and stuck out to find Ranger Longtail on his own volition. At the time, he professed to be concerned about her well being and feared that any delay would prove disastrous for his fellow ranger. As laudable as his motives may have been, his actions jeopardized the mission and everyone at our post. It was by the grace of Archanon that we managed to extract our fellow rangers despite his rashness.

At any rate, after Highwall had gone AWOL, Ranger Hawksclaw was attacked, within our very walls, by Ratzin assassins using Alchemy to approach in utter silence. Though he fought valiently, he was overwhelmed by numbers and, by his report, shrunk and confined on the person of a Ratzin. Hawksclaw was taken to the subterranean lair and placed inside a cage sized for a bird of prey. There he spied the unconscious form of Longtail in a nearby cage, also of diminished size. From his own report, his salvation came at the hands of an unusual ally in the form of a Faerie. Prior to his mission, he had visited High Druidess Treesinger in her sacred grove at the heart of the town. There she bestowed upon him the blessings of Life. It would seem that blessing came as a creature of pure life who managed to secure a key to the cage and assist his escape. From there he climbed the vines upon the licencing like some primitive rope bridge and there reach the shelves containing the evil Alchemists vials and beakers. Hearing our combat growing close, he, rather recklessly, tested the tinctures until he found himself of great size and proportion, easily dwarfing the Ratzin. There, alone, he did battle, unarmed, until laid low by a large, powerful Ratzin assassin. Until our rescue, his part was completed.

Meanwhile, Highwall was headed to the Low Town skids where the town offal runs out a small gate beneath the southern wall. When that exit proved impassable, he followed the wall east until he reached the southern postern gate. There he exited the town and double back, now outside the town, to the sewer cesspool. Forcing his way past the bars, he wandered the sewers battling Ratzin in hordes until there I found him, surrounded and grievously wounded, but still very much in the fight. The rest of his part I have explained in my previous report.

All of this occurred while I was finishing my conversation with the Lord Mayor. No sooner had I reached the Main Road, when Sergeant Major Stormhammer rushed to meet me. In brief, he explained that Hawksclaw and Highwall were holding the HQ, but I must return urgently because he believed that Longtail had been abducted. I returned to find my entire time team missing. As I explained on my report of the 16th, I ventured alone into the bowels of the town, came upon Highwall and found the enemy lair.

Here, I must account the conclusion to this sad episode. Our fight very nearly finished me and my men. It was not until late morning on the 16th before we were in any condition to even rise for our fitful rest. Only Stormhammer and the ever vigilant Grimbore remained on watch. At any rate, we received an unexpected, but welcome, guest in the form of the aforementioned scribe, Grizhnak Olgor. A Goblin with the fine bearing of a Galean elite, Olgor immediately set about establishing a small library for our, rather sparse, outpost. He also expressed an interest in joining our men as we returned to the underground lair. Our description of the “portal” intrigued him greatly.

However, before descending into the depths, I debriefed each of my rangers in order to gain some comprehension of the past day. What I learned I have written above, save for a personal note regarding each ranger in question. Ranger Hawksclaw provided a sterile report, explaining in exacting detail the bizarre behavior of Ranger Highwall and his own concerns about continued operations. Ranger Highwall expressed his regret for his actions and assured me such would never happen in the future. Ranger Longtail had little to say but relief. Based on their performance, and the question as to whether I would remain at this post once news of former Captain Manning reached Kythros, I felt compelled to establish some form of command structure. With the blessing of Stormhammer, I hereby promoted Ranger Rah-Sahn Hawksclaw to Ranger 1st Class.

Once organizational details had been sorted, I sent my rangers to request assistance from the Lord Mayor who tasked the Royal Sheriff and his 20 best men to our detail. Ranger 1st Class Hawksclaw showed admirable restraint being forced to work with the man who so recently imprisoned him. Even so, the Sheriff, his men, my team and the new scribe, Olgor descended into the depths to return to the scene of such perfidy. We arrived to find things much as we had left them. A great portion of the lab had been destroyed in the cataclysm of my futile attempts to stem the tide of Ratzin through what we have come to understand was a faulty portal or cauldron of some sort.

While the Royal guards secured the room, my rangers set about searching the various remains and trying to determine how may had fallen prey, how long this had been occurring and recovering what personal affects they could uncover. Meanwhile, Olgor studied the room, the book I had found earlier and the pedestal in the corner. My Rangers found numerous items, many of which would later be returned to surviving family and friends. They also realized that, based on the pattern of kidnappings, this den had been in operation for some years. It is very conceivable that this plot was hatched during the War of Flame. How fortunate are we that, despite the limited success of the relatively few kidnapping victims, no further damage was caused. This lair could, conceivably, caused the fall of Echer’Naught during the war had it worked as we believe intended. Consulting with Ranger Highwall, who’s family it appears has some history in runes and magic, Olgor surmised that the Thaumaturgist was attempting to create a permanent-triggered spell which, when activated, would open a portal to Nocan Dar and release untold horrors upon the town. We do not know exactly what transpired, suffice to say, the trigger effect was faulty creating a situation in which the portal was only partially effective, and only for a short time preceding the cycle of three full moons and during the 13th hour. With the help of Stormhammer’s hammer, we managed to break the runes, thereby deactivating the artifact. Collecting all, including the defunct pedestal, we all returned to the surface.

My rangers returned what they could to those who had lost. There was much gratitude from the townspeople. So much so, that the Schenkle bakery now provides fresh bread each morning. Also, the lady of the evening, Aurora’s daughter Sarah had now joined our staff as a housemaid and laundress during the morning and early afternoon.

All being said, this has been a trial fore our little band. It has revealed our strengths and our weaknesses. I only hope that we can move beyond this episode and continue to serve in the fullness of out capacity. Regardless, the town is secured, Captain Manning has been avenged and the Lord Mayor has requested our assistance in dealing with an issue of taxes. Until such time as I am permanently assigned, or replaced, I will uphold the ideals and code of the Ranger Corps and do my utmost in the name of Life, Light and the faith placed in me by my commanders.

Into the Depths

After Action Report:
Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Sixteenth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

As I pen these words, I find myself troubled. Our investigation into the Echer’Naught disappearances leaves me with more questions than answers. I am fairly certain that anyone who has already been abducted is now dead. We found many remains and discarded equipment in the subterranean labyrinth, food for the many Ratzen nesting there. However, I must wait until a force can be sent to recover the remains for positive identification.

Perhaps, I should begin with an account of what has transpired?

On the morning of the 15th, I assembled my team. We discussed options. Should we descend immediately during daylight hours? Should we allow the mid-month to pass in hopes that the threat would then lie dormant? In the end, we elected to dispatch rangers to various sections of the city and A) discover if the mid-month abduction had already taken place, and B) warn the townsfolk to avoid being out alone until the threat had been dealt with.

Gate Highwall took the warehouse district and the stockyards. Rah-Sahn Hawksclaw took the merchant district and the Town Watch. Aradove Longtail headed to Low Town, while I tried to gain an audience with the Lord Mayor. Sergeant Stormhammer remained to coordinate and secure the outpost.

My visit to High Towne was as I expected. It took much of the day to secure an audience with the Lord Mayor and, though he was greatly concerned for his townsfolk, he could not order people off the streets. I was able to negotiate an agreement by which his personal guards supplemented town wide patrols. It was late in the eve by the time I returned.

I now know that my rangers met with similar success, half-hearted promises to pass along the warning, but few with whom we spoke seemed overly concerned. With mixed feelings I learned that no one had yet been abducted. While feeling relieved for the people of Echer’Naught, I now knew that we had to act tonight.

I had barely reached the highway when Stormhammer approached at a run. To my horror, he explained that Ranger Longtail had been abducted and that both Highwall and Hawksclaw were waiting at the outpost for my return, both determined to recover Longtail.

But, upon returning to the outpost, my heart sank. During my absence, some vile force had penetrated our security and abducted the remainder of my team. Stormhammer was prepared to storm the sewers, consequences be damned. However, I could risk no more of my team, so leaving a very unhappy sergeant, I found my way into the sewers via access provided by the town planners.

I was soon beset by Ratzin, many of the beasts were crawling the sewers and tunnels beneath the streets. I was led by the sound of combat echoing off the walls. I soon stumbled across a severely wounded Highwall battling for his life against a swarm of savage Ratzin. The combat was fierce, but we prevailed, though our respite was brief. More foes were closing fast.

Glancing around, I saw no sign of Hawksclaw. Demanding a report from Highwall, I found his evasiveness troubling, but had no time to investigate further. More and more and more of the vile beasts closed from all directions and we cut our way through back to back. As we fought past the rats, we spied a strange glowing light approaching, almost like foxfire. Confused, we prepared for some new horror, but to our surprise, a lone faerie bobbed along in the doom and gloom.

It was clear the creature had a purpose and we soon determined that it wished for us to follow. Curiously, and with no better direction, Highwall and I followed. Soon, we found ourselves outside a room lined with shelves and cages. In the center a table covered in arcane implements. In one corner I could feel more than see a distortion, some kind of arcane artifice or portal.

Highwall staggered by his injuries could continue no more, so I left him to hold the hall as I entered to find Hawksclaw surrounded by fallen foes, lying bleeding on the ground with a Ratzin Assassin standing over his body. The fight was close and deadly, but the beast fell to my blade. Yet more seemed to come from the strange pedestal in the corner of the room.

Beaten, battered with my team spent, I had no choice but to try and disable the spells maintaining the portal. I gathered my team behind the thick wooden table we had moved into position. Then, taking up all of the unnamed bottles, salves and inctures, I hurled them all at the pedestal know not what might happen, but praying for a miracle. The resulting arcane release was terrifying, but the gate appeared to be closed.

While the faerie attended to the wounded, I scoured the room noting the arcane symbols etched in human blood, the piles of gnawed bone and discarded clothes and the implement of both spellcasters and alchemists. Clearly, this was a laboratory of evil. Also, in one of the smaller cages I found the unconscious form of Ranger Longtail, yet she was hardly bigger than a housecat.

Tired, confused and with a growing sense of unease, I escorted my team back the way we had come, following the obliging faerie. She led us to a hatch which turned out to lead to our own HQ. Highwall and Stormhammer worked together to open the hatch from below using a clever mechanism hidden to those above. Then, stinking, bleeding and exhausted, we crawled out of the pit and collapsed where we lay.

That was hours ago and I have roused myself sufficient to heat a pot of wine and right this report.

I do not know the nature of the magiks occurring in the lab, I do not know the location or nature of the mages responsible. I do not know if I closed the portal or if it closed on its own. I do not know how my team came to be split and captured. I simply do not know. When my team recovers sufficient to explain their actions leading to this debacle, I will seek to understand. Until such time, all I can to is thank the Light that I lost no one today, my team or my town and pray we can stop whatever sickness infests our new home.

Down to Brass Tacks

Mission Assignment:
With the arrival of new recruits, it is time to begin the investigation for the disappearance of the former Ranger Captain Gerald Manning.

After Action Report:
Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Fifteenth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

So much has occurred since my last report I hardly know where to begin. Though, I must apologize for any inaccuracies in this missive I am writing quickly. Due to our investigation having discovered many disturbing facts regarding Captain Manning’s investigation, as I will detail below, I fear that my team faces a great threat today and I pen this in hopes that should my team fall prey to whatever lurks below Echer’Naught, our successors will find this report illuminating and may save them from our dark fates. But, to begin…

No sooner had my previous report left with the courier, than there was a ring of the bell at the door. Ranger Hawksclaw answered and quickly brought to me a young, Brinchie Ranger. I must admit my surprise, as I had hardly expected any further arrivals, save for my scribe who is growing increasingly late. She introduced herself as Aradove Longtail and presented proper papers and a letter of recommendation from a Paladin Ranger, Athrate Alystar. His report disturbed me and I vow to investigate Ranger Longtail’s previous encounter as soon as my current assignment is completed. Assuming, of course, that we are to survive. I welcomed her to our company and provided what meager accommodations our post affords. She selected a berth high in the warehouse rafters. Befitting her kind, I suspect.

Regardless, I called together my team, minus Magor Stormhammer who is in charge of repair and improvement of our post. While my team has been dealing with settling in, I have scoured all information regarding Captain Manning and his rangers. The information has been frustratingly little, but I managed to piece together his final moments and presented this information to my rangers. I counted seven disappearances, with Captain Manning and his team being the eighth. I record those here for posterity.

Armed with this information, I tasked my rangers to retrace the Manning’s footsteps and attempt to glean what about these particular incidences he found so troubling. These were hardly the only people to have died or disappeared during this time period, so I was at a loss to explain their significance. Even so, doubtless they were the clues to understanding Manning’s disappearance. Early in the morning, my team left. What follows I compiled from their individual reports (included below) and speaking with them last night.

The first stop for the rangers was to the Schenkle bakery, one of dozens of similar businesses along the aptly named Baker Street. As they arrived during the morning rush, my people wisely chose to wait patiently as to not interfere with the baker’s business. While they waited, they enjoyed a meat pie. Something that I feel I must try after hearing their review. Once the patrons had mostly vacated, Hawksclaw approached the baker. Unfortunately, Mr. Schenkle was loathe to speak with us. As it happens, Helena was his daughter and her disappearance and the apparent apathy on behalf of the Town Watch and the Ranger Corps hit his family hard. He implored my men not to speak with his wife as her grief was too great, but instead directed them to his eldest son, Erik. Though young, Erik was respectful and showed them to the cellar. Regrettably, so many months had passed since her disappearance, no evidence could be found at the site, though they did note a drainage grate in the corner of the room. Moving on, they made their way to Low Town.

Low Town is a warren of twisting, filthy streets where those with nowhere else to turn eke out an existence. Many streets run foul with open sewers and many of the streets and alleys have no names. Understandably, the rangers found it difficult finding anyone who knew of those taken there or would speak of the disappearances. However, Ranger Longtail proved invaluable and they eventually found their way to one of dozens of small, family-run alehouses that litter Low Town. Within they encountered an individual I very much wish to speak with, one Therel FateWeaver, a self-declared Bard. From what I was told, he seemed well familiar with both Hawksclaw and Highwall due to their previous misadventures detailed in my previous reports. FateWeaver proved an invaluable source of information. Whether due to a genuine sense of civic duty, or an infatuation with the comely Longtail, he willingly parted with details regarding the disappearance of both Charles, the human laborer, and Whisker, the brinchie thief. Apparently, Whisker was a close associate of the bard and he expressed a desire for vengeance upon those that did her ill. All he asked in return for his knowledge was a future favor. I am curious to see what this individual will ask, but for the moment, I am satisfied. From there, the team headed straight to the Stock Yards.

Almost the entirety of the North East portion of town is set aside for the business of livestock. From horses and cows, to pigs, sheep, goat and even more exotic animals, Stock is one of Echer’Naught’s biggest businesses. Understandably, the yards are large and sprawling. Having no dealings with the yard hands before, at first, my rangers were stymied as to whom to approach. Fortunately, Highwall’s keen eyes spotted a group of Hammerfell riders observing the incoming horseflesh being run in. They were kind enough to direct him to a nearby yard being operated by an Orc. Highwall and the Orc had a conversation, the details of which are still hazy. However, through the Orc, Highwall was introduced to a Goblin by the name of Gor who knew the missing Chirok. Apparently, Chirok was a good worker who disappeared from the feed yard never to be seen again. Other members of his gather also worked for the yard and they demanded justice, but the investigation either never happened or simply stalled. Captain Manning might have been close to uncovering the truth when he vanished. I only hope we are able to solve this mystery. Gor directed Highwall to the feed shed before he and the Orc returned to their work. With this new insight, Highwall headed to investigate the site of the disappearance while Hawksclaw and Longtail had an altercation with a goat. I am also curious about the details of the incident but neither ranger cared to elaborate. Following Highwall, the rangers examined the feed shed. They found nothing of note, other than that the feeders were set one flagstones above the field of muck around and that they too have drainage grates to protect the expensive feed. Noting this, the team found the yard’s office and spoke with the man staffing the desk. He had little to add other than confirming that Chirok’s gather protested his disappearance and demanded redress and the time and place of his disappearance. He also informed them that Chirok’s last pay had never been collected and provided a copy of his employment.

Armed with this knowledge, the team returned to the post to clean their boots and to rest. Highwall chose to assist Stormhammer with routine maintenance of post gear.

After their brief respite, the rangers headed to the local watch post to investigate other missing person reports. Sergeant Walter provided the team with all the reports on file. They were a mess, incomplete and inconclusive, but corroborated much of Captain Manning’s reports. More disturbingly, the rangers discovered that since Manning vanished, others had also disappeared under strange circumstances…and all close to the mid-point or the end of the month. Still with doubts, the rangers accepted Sergeant Vasser’s invitation to join the Watch for the evening meal. According to my rangers, Longtail proved quite popular among the men of the Watch, Hawksclaw and the Sergeant formed a rapport and Highwall quite enjoyed the stew.

Satiated, the rangers returned to the post and requested that I secure an audience with the Lord Mayor that night while they continued onward to the Warehouse District.

At the North East quarter of the town lies the warehouse district. Here much of the surrounding produce, grain and other goods are stored for sale, distribution, and taxation. As Grisham Longhaul was a dwarf, Highwall took point and approached Longhaul’s clan, many of whom also worked as stockers or security for the warehouses. Introduced by the foreman, Highwall learned from the other dwarves that Grisham was hard working and had been at the warehouses for the past 20 years. One evening the others headed to the Hammer & Anvil after work and Grisham stayed behind to finish work. He was never seen again. The Longhaul’s beseeched Highwall to avenge their clansman’s disappearance. With that, the team entered the warehouse to investigate the scene. Just like before, there was little evidence so many months after the event, but they did find a number of drainage grates in the floor. Also, it should be noted that the warehouse was very similar to our own headquarters. An a thought, the rangers tried to pry any of the grates but none would budge as they were set into the floor. Satisfied, the team returned and picked up my letter to the Lord Mayor. At around 8PM, they made their way toward Beacon Hill.

As they described to be later, they were stopped by well-armed, finely liveried arms men at the base of Beacon Hill. I am pleased that my letter of introduction secured their access to Olde Town and, under armed escort, they proceed to the Mayoral Manse. There, they were turned over to the Mayor’s men and were escorted by a butler to the Mayor’s office. Having witnessed the grandeur and opulence myself, I can only image their reactions. Somehow, I do not find it odd that Von Haber had none other than Calaban Rabenclau in attendance, just the man they had wished to see. After a brief introduction, Rabenclau explained that one of his bottlers had, indeed, gone to the cellar to fetch wine and never return. He had little to add other than condescension, an all-too-common attitude among the nobles. Lord Mayor Von Haber expressed his strong desire that this issue be dealt with and soon. Leaving the Mayor Manse, my team proceeded immediately to the Red Lamp District.

Having never visited, I am unfamiliar with the atmosphere, but from the reports of my people, the Red Lamp is elegant, clean and well appointed. Entering the “establishment”, the ranger’s secured an audience with the Madame, one Lady Lillithen. She explained that the Aurora was a streetwalker and had just entertained a “client” when she was abducted on her return to the Red Lamp. The Madame expressed her outrage that one of her “girls” would be the subject of violence. Apparently, she is a feared figure in her own domain. When the rangers inquired after the client, they were informed that he had been unable to provide further details, but that he was no longer able to answer questions and that he “had been” a prominent merchant. I can only guess at the subtext of her statements. Regardless, she corroborated much of their information and requested the rangers hunt down whoever would dare harm her people. She promised favors if the situation could be dealt with finality. I can guess the favors she would bestow. However, her words were clear and true and she ensured that the rangers would be “safe” during their investigation while within her domain. Leaving politely, the Hawksclaw, Highwall and Longtail returned to the post for debriefing and rest.

Putting our information together, the best we can surmise is that these have no other connection than convenience of location. Someone, or something, is using the town’s sewer, drainage, and cistern system to ambush and abduct citizens. The only break in the pattern involved Captain Manning and his rangers. They were the only people to disappear in multiple numbers, all others were single individuals, alone. What this means, I can guess, but without evidence, that is all. Also, the phases of the moon is consistent. Each abduction took place on or just prior to the 15th and last day of any given month. That is what we know so far. In conjunction with my previous encounter with the Flame Acolyte and the abducted merchants, I fear I am facing some larger organized situation.

Regardless, today is the 15th. If something is going to happen, it will be today. I can honestly say I am afraid for my team, but we have a mission to complete. I must end soon for the courier is waiting at my door. I believe we may have a major incident on hand at Echer’Naught. If I and my rangers do not report within two days, you must send rangers in force to investigate.

Your obedient servant,

A. Wolfhaven, Captain

Additional Information:
Our first game as a complete group. We welome K.L. to our group and had a great themed meal together.

Important NPCs:
Therel FateWeaver

FateWaver has travelled the length and breadth of Shaintar and seen and one things many could hardly believe. Such a life provides fertile soil for story and song, the life draught of the bard. Even so, fate can be unkind. Rather than entertaining kings and emperors, Therel scratches a living entertaining drunkards, louts and luddites.

StreetRunner

Born in the streets, Streerunner has spent little time with his own kind. Since meeting Therel in a Olaran bar, he has taken up role as protector and silent partner for Therel’s schemes.

Calaban Rabenklau

Youngest scion of the Rabenklau family misfortune, Calaban rose to lead his family after father’s mental illness became too apparent to be excused in polite society. Despite his young age, Calaban was able to deftly maneuver his older siblings and slowly take over the family assets. By the tender age of 16, all other contenders had suffered tragic accidents, leaving only the elder Rabenklau and his youngest son. While legally, Calaban is still just a young socialite; behind the scenes he has leveraged his family’s lands and assets into a thriving underworld empire with fingers in many pies.

Lillithien

Little is known about the mysterious woman behind the Red Lamp other than her beauty and allure. When she arrived in Echer’Naught is a matter of debate, what is not is that within the confines a few block district her word is law. Not even the King’s men dare challenge her on her own ground. Of course, most of the Lords and a few of the Ladies are her clients.

Trouble with the Law

Mission Assignment:
With the arrival of new recruits, it is time to begin the investigation for the disappearance of the former Ranger Captain Gerald Manning.

After Action Report:
Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Grey Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Fourteenth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

Much has happened since my last report. As reported, Ranger Trainee Hawksclaw had arrived this the morning of the 10th, his prisoners secured in the town goal by His Magesty King of Olara, Banrick XIV’s lawful representative, Sir Halten, Royal Sherriff of Echer’Naught. I find the man offish, boorish and arrogant, but no more so than many nobles in his station. Mere hours after I excused Ranger trainee Rah-Sahn Hawksclaw to establish himself here at the outpost, another trainee arrived, Ranger Gate Highwall. He is a Dwarf in every way. Time will tell how my newest recruits will be able to form a cohesive unit. Even so, both arrived with letters of writ, a letter of recommendation and prisoners in tow. Apparently the good sheriff had been rather busy, taking into custody both Hawksclaw and Highwall’s prisoners no sooner had they entered the town. While I filed their reports and drew up the official paperwork for their commission, Kelebor, StormHammer, Highwall, and Hawksclaw bonded over a skin of the Hammer and Anvil’s finest ale.

The following morning I called my entire staff together to formally and officially induct my new recruits into the Rangers as full members. Unfortunately, our meeting was cut short by the sudden and rude intrusion of the Sherriff and a squad of royal soldiers. They demanded the immediate surrender of trainee Hawksclaw for crimes including: assault and kidnapping of the King’s subject, theft and destruction of the King’s property, and preventing the King’s subjects from their duty. My objections fell on deaf ears. I was only able to secure Hawksclaw’s cloak and ancestral sword from being confiscated by the sheriff and his men. I sent Gate Highwall to the goal to discover what he could and to ensure Hawksclaw was not being ill-treated only to discover that, not only had Hawksclaw’s prisoners been freed, so too had Highwall’s. Clearly, a grievous clerical error had been made. Meanwhile, I went to speak with the Lord Mayor Von Haber. It took me some time to secure an audience, but, Thank the Light, he was sympathetic to our situation. Unfortunately, the sheriff was right in the law. Hawksclaw, in his enthusiasm, destroyed the camp and with it the lockbox that the woodcutter crew leader claimed contained his payroll and most important papers. With those destroyed, the evidence for the legality of his operation was in question. Yet, without those papers there was no definitive way to prove the operation was illegal. Without proof, the law came down to the word of the woodcutter, ostensibly a man known to the sheriff, against that of Hawksclaw, only a trainee and a foreigner to this land. Without legal justification for his release, there was little the Lord Mayor could do save provide me with a letter of petition on his behalf for mercy from the court. It took another few days to secure an audience with his Lordship the sheriff. When we were finally able to arrange a meet, Lord Halten elected to have the event in a public forum, not a trial, but an airing of grievances. Hawksclaw was brought in chains and the woodcutter presented his accusations. Then the accused was allowed to speak. Hawksclaw gave a good accounting of himself, but to no avail, the sheriff was unconvinced. He ordered that the prisoner would stay in goal until the next court session, a period of some nine months. I knew that my new recruit would never survive that long in such conditions, so I presented the Lord Mayor’s letter. With the weight of that office behind me, the sheriff reconsidered his position and offered the Rangers a compromise. Hawksclaw would be released and the charges dropped if we would agree to pay restitution for the damaged property and 2 weeks wages for the forestry operation. In addition, we were barred from further harassment of the woodcutter or his men. Loathe, I agreed and after StormHammer and Highwall brought our funds, I secured Hawksclaw’s release. I fear for the resentment this episode has fostered in the men under my command. As suspicious as I am of the Royal Sheriff’s motives, he is the King’s man and antagonizing him further will only make our work here that much more challenging. I only hope I am able to provide an example to my men of honor, integrity, but also patience and courtesy. My Archanon’s light lend me strength.

Unfortunately, the settlement cost us most of our operational funds. With the outpost little more than an empty warehouse and winter coming upon us, I fear it will be lean times indeed. Even so, with my recruits finally assembled, I was able to continue with their swearing in ceremony. Fortune favored us, however, in that Kelebor, a wandering ranger of some local repute, was also an accomplished adept. He performed the required mental investigation and cleared my entire post for duty. I then had the honor and privilege of inducting both Rah-Sahn Hawksclaw and Gate Highwall into the corps and promoting them to full-fledge rangers. This is the first of such duties I have been blessed to perform. I hope these are not my last.

As pleased as I am that the Ranger corps has seen fit to grant my request for assistance, I feel the weight of my responsibilities grow with each passing hour. This post is in need of outfitting and upgrading, my recruits, as talented as they are individually, require training and time to come together as a team and most importantly, I must complete my mission to find Ranger Captain Gerald Manning.

Your obediant servant,

A. Wolfhaven, Captain

Additional Information:
Included are campaign reports from GM and both players.

Aradove Longtail will join us next adventure as she is still travelling north.

Important NPCs:
Sir Eric Halten

Sheriff of Echer’Naught, Sir Halten is a boorish, officious civil servant, but a decent sheriff. He cares little for the lower classes, but much for his office and reputation. It is rumored that he is illiterate, though no one has been foolish enough to suggest such to his face.

Magor Stormhammer

Magor is the epitome of an old dwarven soldier. Born in the Forges to a metalworking clan, Magor took an interest in arms and armor from birth. Showing a keen understanding of forging, he was destined to rise to a position as a master crafter. War changed all of that. Turning his knowledge of weapons to their martial use, Magor left home and joined the fight against Flame and Darkness. Since that day, he has yet to see his old Clanhome. From soldier, to Ranger and from there to Sergeant and Master of Arms, Stormhammer has dedicated his entire life to the cause of truth and justice. Active military service ended during the War of Flame when he recieved a disabling leg wound during service to the Rangers. Since that time, he has been posted as the Master of Arms for the town of Echer’Naught and is really the glue that bind the post together.

Grimbore

No one knows from where the massive Ogre hails or how he came to guard the doors of the warehouse now used by the rangers as outpost. When Captain Manning and Sergeant Stormhammer arrived at the recently purchased building, they discovered the looming beheamoth standing guard outside an empty and abandoned storage facility. It took some time to convince the guard of their legitimate ownership just to gain entrance. What they eventually gleaned is that for many years Grimbore stood at the door and protected the property within. When the previous owner lost the warehouse due to some poor investments during the war, he fled the town leaving behind the building and its guardian. How long Grimbore stood, alone, waiting for his return, we may never know. Unable to convince the Ogre to leave, Captain Manning decided to continue to pay him at the rather reasonable salary he was acostomed and allow him to continue his duties. And so, the Echer’Naught ranger post acquired a loyal and intimidating doorman…if not the greatest conversationalist.

Lord Mayor, Heinrich Von Haber

Heinrich was born to nobility, a blue-blood in every sense of the word. The Von Habers, a vassal family of the Harken Duchy, have been so since the founding of Olara. While Olaran nobility are traditionally warriors, Heinrich excelled in other pursuits. A born politician, Heinrich took over his family at a very early age and almost overnight increased their wealth and prestige through shrewd negotiations, business acumen and a keen sense of the wants and desires of those around him. Toward the end of the War of Flame, Heinrich was appointed to the mayorship of Echer’Naught. He has since then increased town profits and brought new prestige to the holdings.

The arrival of Trainee Hawksclaw has been a pleasant surprise. My previous letter had very nearly just left when the first, of what I hope to be many, new rangers arrived. I was curious to discover that Trainee Hawksclaw arrived with four prisoners and two wagons with teams. His official report (enclosed) was brief and to the point, however, after speaking with the man and his senior guide, Gray Ranger Kelebor, I was able to glean a greater sense of the events that have unfolded to be outlined herein.

Upon recieving his official orders and new Trainee cloak, Hawksclaw and Kelebor set out from Eldara on the way to Echer’Naught. The greater part of their trip occured with out serious incident. Kelebor was asked to settled a minor border dispute between two neighbors, but the incident was of no signficance. However, after leaving Erda’Meis, the rangers woke on morning close to the edge of the forest to a song both men described as mournful. Following the sounds of despair, they arrived at a clearing to find an Eldakar druidess, a one Illandria Treesinger. I note here that Druidess Treesinger is a current resident of Echer’Naught and tends the sacred grove and spring in the center of the town. Why she happened to be in the forest of Landra’Feya that morning I am unlikely to ascertain. Regardless, she informed the rangers that one of the sacred trees had been felled, along with many others. I can only assume that by “sacred” the druidess might refer to a source of Everwood? but this is idle speculation. She requested assistance from the rangers who readily agreed. After she left, they followed the tracks south and east, heading in a line toward the edge of the forest somewhere bewteen Erda’Meias and Farwatch. There they came upon a party of four men illegally logging in soverign elven territory. Though the rangers demanded surrender, the villains fled and they were able only to capture the leader of the party. Though Hawksclaw was forced to shoot him down, the man survived his injuries and betrayed his nearby comrades.

Taking the two mules, wagon and prisoner, the rangers proceeded toward the main logging camp. Unfortanately, the mules revealed themselves too stubborn and Hawksclaw was forced to abandon his seat or be carried bodily into an armed camp. The arrival of an empty, unmanned wagon stirred the camp, but fortunately, they suspected the negligence of their companions rather than a ranger raid. Hawksclaw allowed the greater body of men to pass unmolested and when they were a distance away, launched a raid against the reduced numbers remaining in the camp. Kelebor managed to incapacitate one of the men, however Hawksclaw was set upon by the cook and one of the ax men. He acquitted himself well and both men were taken alive. With their four prisoners, two wagons and six mules, Kelebor and Hawksclaw set fire to the camp and proceeded immediately here to Echer’Naught.

As I write this, the prisoners are being taken into custody and their interogation shall begin tomorrow. We hope to soon learn more about these illegal logging operations and put a stop to them before the rogues instigate an incident with our elven neighboors.

Based upon the recommendations of Gray Ranger Kelebor I intend to immediately raise Hawksclaw to full ranger status. He showed initiative and caution in dealing with this situation. I see good things in his future.

Your obediant servant,

A. Wolfhaven, Captain

Additional Information:
This game represents the pre-amble session for Rah-Sahn Hawksclaw.

Important NPCs:
Gray Ranger Kelebor

Not much is known about Kelebor. He is Alakar. He has served for decades and he likes a good smoke. Though he generally keeps to the Elvish Forests, he has shown a willingness to assist rangers wherever they may be.

Illandria Treesinger

From birth, Illandria was blessed by a deep connection to Landra granting her insight greater than many of her peers. With this insight came a deep and abiding respect for Life. Though the war forced her to fight, she chose only those battles that she could not avoid. Illandria tended the wounded in field hospitals, distributed rations to the soldiers and lent her strength, wisdom and magic where needed. After the war, she returned home to Landra’Feya for a time, but the war had changed her and the land that she loved. So, she left, but not far, and took up residence in the nearby town of Echer’Naught. There she tends the sacred grove at the heart of the town.

Sergeant Walter Vasser

Common born, but a native of the town, Sergeant Vasser served in the Olaran army through the war. Never a great hero or leader of men, nevertheless, Vasser proved a doughty warrior and a good man. Upon his return from service, he was offered the position as Captain of the watch. He agreed to Sergeant and has held the post since then. He stands at nearly six feet and is of stocky, farmer build. Blonde hair and blue eyed, Walter would be considered handsome were it not for the scar on his face or the deeply etched lines from years of hard labor and exposure.

New Assignment

Mission Assignment:

Having recieved official orders to ride to the Olaran town of Echer’Naught and upon arriving there invistigate the disapperance of Ranger Captain Gerald Manning and his missing rangers, the report below outlines my first encounter upon arriving in the territory assigned to the Rangers of the Greenway Road.

After Action Report:
Captain Wolfhaven, Alexander

Gray Ranger Outpost, Echer’Naught

Tenth day, Raining Leaves, Year 3122 Under the Light

What follows is a true accounting of the events which occurred upon the 3rd of this month, seven days prior. Regrettably, I was not present for the opening hostilities, I have taken time to speak with the survivors and believe I have an accurate understanding of the events as they unfolded. This incident involved two parties. The first: a travelling merchant caravan under the leadership of a Nazatiran man by the name of Miguel Ruiz Lorenzo Valero who was accompanied by his wife Eva and their young daughter Sophia. Also of importance to this report was the caravan herbalist and the chief guard, a silent Brinchie called Peacekeeper. In total, this group originally consisted of nearly 30 members. The second group, smaller in size, but not in relevance to this incident, was a pair of travelers; a human sorcerer named Coramin and his travel companion Nelenna, an Aevakar archer.

As reported to me, shortly before dusk, Coramin and Nelenna arrived at the Dwarven Waystation, a rest stop roughly half way between the city of Harken to the east and the town of Echer’Naught to the west. There, the companions discovered the way station was already occupied by the caravan of merchants. Being kindly and of good nature, Master Valero offered his hospitality to the duo and they joined the merchant camp for the night. Though all seemed well, and there had been very little banditry along the road in recent weeks, the party came under assault in a pre-dawn attack that overwhelmed the guards before they could respond. Nelenna and Coramin spoke at length about waking in the pre-dawn hours to find the camp swarming with goblinesh and ratzin. Curiously, no alarm was sounded and, according to Coramin, magic was involved. He believes that at least two spells were in effect; one a silence spell to mask the bandit approach and a second illusory spell to increase the enemy numbers and sow greater confusion among the caravan. Needless to say, the merchants acquitted themselves admirably. Of particular note, and all parties agreed as much, both Coramin and Nelenna fought valiantly and bravely throughout the skirmish, each claiming a number of foes. Curiously at the time, shortly after joining the battle, Coramin found himself being ensnared in a hastily constructed sack of recently slaughtered cow stomachs. Almost before he could think, an ogre, one of very few in the attacking party, had slipped the bag over his head and proceeded to haul him away into the darkness. Were it not for the keen eyes of Nelenna and her skill with the bow, Coramin would certainly have found himself a prisoner. Regardless, by working together, Coramin slipped his bonds and gave better than he received. So mighty was their skill, that the enemy fled before them. Doubtless the evisceration of one of their fellows by a wicked arrow springing from Nelenna’s bow had much to do with their loss of heart. Regardless, as the sun rose above the horizon, the enemies fled and the caravan began the sad duty of counting the wounded and the dead.

It is here that I arrived on scene. Earlier that morning, I and two Riders of Hammerfell had set out toward the town; I to take up my new assignment in Echer’Naught, and my companions on their way to a posting with the town’s Hammerfell contingent. Almost immediately, we spied smoke against the sky and made great haste to the site of the attack. Upon arrival, I found a scene of carnage. Many merchants and guards lay dead, Senior Valero himself was very nearly mortally wounded. As Coramin and Nelenna were explaining the situation, Eva Valero discovered a disturbing fact. During the raid, in which almost nothing was actually taken, young Sophia has been abducted. So too, the old herbalist was found neither among the living or the dead. It was at this juncture that the keen mind of Coramin parsed out the likely reason for the attack. Both he and the herbalist had the gift, Sorcerer and Alchemist respectively. Grudgingly admitted, the Valero’s revealed that so too their daughter Sophia had displayed indicators of arcane power. So the truth was revealed that the target of the assault was not goods or coin, but persons of power. How the enemy knew of Sophia’s secret, we still do not know. I suspect a traitor in their midst, but is he still alive or was he killed the attack? Who is to say?

Knowing this, I suspected a much darker power behind the raid and vowed immediately to rescue the prisoners. Peacekeeper, Coramin and Nelenna also vowed to join me. As much as it pained him, Senior Valero was in no condition for an arduous ride, so he agreed to lead his people to the safety of Echer’Naught and report to the Rangers there. With him I sent the younger of my companions for security. Preparations were made and the Caravan moved out as my party headed north following the trail of the bandits. I must admit being perplexed. Ratzin are enemies of all under the light, but I had trouble accepting that the local goblinesh were in league with Flame. None of the reports I had read before taking this assignment suggested that the local gathers were anything but honorable, if not exactly allies. Even so, with the wind picking up and a chill in the autum air, we road, Nelenna flew and Peacekeeper loped ahead.

Around noon, the Aevakar lady spotted a column of smoke smudging the skyline. Approaching cautiously, we discovered a farmhouse whose livestock had been butchered and mutilated, then left to rot in the sun. Peacekeeper scouted the area while Nelenna circled the house. No sign of the farmers were found outside so Coramin and I entered while the sergeant remained with the horses. The charnel house within was infinitely worse than the scene without. Four poor souls had been dragged inside and then fed upon while they yet lived. Blood and offal was everywhere. We searched for survivors, without much hope. Curiously, I discovered a magical sigil burned into the wall above the still smoldering chimney. I asked Coramin, our magical expert, to investigate further while I stepped outside to report to our companions. I had crossed but halfway to the door when the sorcerer commanded me to stop. Complying instantly, I learned that we had activated some form of magical trap. Cormain sought every means of escape, but the villain who set the trap had done their work admirably. We were left with but one choice. Coramin relying on his protective spells and I my armor, we rushed the door and hurled ourselves outside as the farmhouse was engulfed in unholy flames. We were both singed, but otherwise unharmed. I owe my life to the keen sense and cunning thinking of Coramin. That hazard overcome, Peacekeeper revealed that our enemies had split. The goblinesh, numbering no more than a dozen had headed west. The captives were taken north by a human and a large, cloven-hooved beast I recognized immediately as a Minotaur.

We took a moment to catch our breath, fill our bellies and recover from the smoke before striking out north again, riding hard. Nearly mid-afternoon, as the terrain became more broken and rocky, Lady Nelenna soared to the sky and spied our quarry not half an hours ride ahead. Being the land of my youth, I devised a strategy whereby Coramin, Nelenna and Peacekeeper would head north-east and come at the enemy from the flank as they threaded a narrow cut in land. Meanwhile, the sergeant and I would ride hard around them and double back, hitting them from the front. All I can say of that ride was it was as desperate as it was hard. My man and I arrived just as the enemy was climbing out of the ravine. As planned, we levelled our lances and charged. Meanwhile, our allies burst from the trees to the enemy ride and attacked. Our plan was perfect, but the enemy Thaumaturgist had other plans. Screaming something dark and sinister, she summoned a pack of Ratzin that immediately swarmed our party. Meanwhile, she let loose a bolt of pure fire and very nearly laid Nelenna low. Peacekeeper bravely took on the Minotaur as my sergerant and I cut our way through the Ratzin. Coramin was instantly surrounded and cut off by a pack. The ensuing fight was quick and brutal. Despite her wounds, Nelenna continued to rain down ours as her wings smouldered and smoked. Coramin laid about him with staff and spell, striking down the Ratzin like wheat before the scythe. Peacekeeper, facing a Minotaur and two Ratzin took to the high ground and fended them off, buying the rest of our force time. Once the Ratzin around me had been dealt with I charged forward to engage the Flame Acolyte. The sergeant rushed to Coramin’s aid and together, they eliminated the pack. With a desperate sweep, I cleaved the witch to her breast, but still the Minotaur fought on. I charged with my man and together with Peacekeeper surrounded the beast. Sadly, our victory was spoiled as in his dying throes, the Minotaur felled the sergeant and his mount in a savage blow.

Victorious, we tended the wounded, secured the captives and established camp. By morning, we were headed south again. Our trip was longer then, at a more relaxed pace. We arrived back at Echer’Naught two and half days later. There we were met by an ebullient Valero family who were overcome with joy at the return of their precious Sophia. I also met Magor Stormhammer, the local ranger Master at Arms, who was about to set off with a rescue party. Senior Valero presented Coramin and Nelenna sacred family cups as a sign of fidelity and thanks. I also expressed my admiration for their abilities and offered them my recommendation should they ever desire to join the Rangers. That evening, there was much celebrating and exchanging of tales. Within a day, Coramin, Nelenna and the merchants had left, continuing their westward trek.

I am left to record their deeds and write a letter to the family of Sergeant Olaf Algorian. He was but 21, fresh faced and as proud of his new rank as any king his crown. Too many of these I have written and I know there will be more to come in the dark days ahead. As I sit in the office of the man I have been sent to find and look around me, I am suddenly struck by the enormity of the task I have before. In my heart of hearts I had hoped that Coramin or Nelenna would have agreed to stay on, if just a while, but no. They each have their life to live.

I conclude this report with a request for reinforcements. Few better understand how dangerously stretched our resources are, especially as storm clouds grow over Camon and strange tales surface from the south of new and powerful magics. My hope is that some may be found to take up the cloak and join me here. For without aid, I fear I cannot succeed.

Your obedient servant,

A. Wolfhaven, Captain

Additional Information:
This adventure was featued on Rho Pi Gamma: The gamer’s podcast in two parts. The first http://rhopigamma.wordpress.com/2013/11/10/season-4-episode-026-season-finale/ having aired Nov. 10, 2013. The second to air early next year. Coramin was played by Byron Clark, the show host. Nelenna by his lovely co-host Liz. Combat was simulated using the Roll20 program.

For more on Rho Pi Gamme, check us out at: http://rhopigamma.wordpress.com/

Important NPCs:
Miguel Ruiz Lorenzo Valero

Senior Valero was born on the island of Nazatir to a family of seamen and merchants. At an early age he took a position with his family merchant fleet and married a local beauty, Eva. Together they had a daughter named Sophia who, very early on, displayed signs of magic. The Valeros decided to take Sophia to Leanda’Feya and turn her training over to a family friend, a Druid of some reputation. Miguel is middle aged, but physically fit. He prefers flamboyant clothes and speaks loudly and with gusto. When he fights, he uses a rapier/dagger style, but much prefers good wine and entertaining stories over bloody combat.

Peacekeeper

Peacekeeper is an enigmatic Brinchie fighter. Like everything about him, where he learned to fight is a complete mystery. He rarely speaks, and when he does it is generally little more than a whisper. Regardless, he is a loyal friend and a fearless warrior. His coloring is similar to that of a mountain lion, and he is average height and build for a Brinchie adult male. His weapons of choice are the traditional lo-sska/rrka combo.